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Published : 22 May 2026, 08:54 PM
A man from Madaripur has been killed in a drone strike while reportedly fighting in the Russia-Ukraine war, with his family alleging that he was lured abroad with the promise of a well-paid job before being forced into military service.
The dead, Suroj Kazi, 30, had travelled to Russia around 10 months ago through intermediaries who promised employment, according to his relatives.
News of his death reached his family on Thursday afternoon via a WhatsApp message sent by a friend, said Madaripur Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Al-Noman.
On Friday, he confirmed the development, saying efforts were under way to bring back the body.
“We will extend full cooperation through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on how his body can be repatriated,” he said.
Suroj’s elder sister, Sharmin Akhter, alleged that two men from their locality and Dhaka arranged his travel by promising a high-paying job in a Russian company.
“About 10 months ago, Dilu Matobber from our village and Zafar Matobber from Dhaka told Suroj that he would get a good job in Russia,” she said.
“On their assurance, and under an agreement, we paid Tk 800,000 to the brokers. Later, through Zafar’s agency, Suroj went to Russia.”
She said that after arriving, Suroj realised he had been “deceived”.
“He found out he had been tricked. Later he was forced to sign a contract and join the Russian army. He was then sent to the frontlines of the Russia-Ukraine war,” she added.
According to her, a fellow villager and classmate confirmed the death on Thursday through a video message from Russia via WhatsApp, describing heavy shelling, drone attacks and mine explosions where Suroj was deployed.
Breaking down in anger, she demanded justice.
“My brother was sold to the Russian army in this war by Dilu the broker and Zafar from Dhaka. I want those brokers hanged. I want my brother back,” she said.
Attempts to reach Dilu and Zafar were unsuccessful, with both their mobile phones found switched off.
ADC Al-Noman said authorities were still trying to determine how Suroj ended up in the Russian military.
“We believe this is a trap. Many people from that migrant-heavy area have gone to Russia and become involved in the war,” he said, urging prospective migrants to remain cautious and avoid such recruitment schemes.
