Broaden probe into RAB, HRW tells Hasina

New York-based rights body Human Rights Watch (HRW) asked Bangladesh authorities Wednesday to establish an independent body to 'investigate evidence' that RAB has been responsible for extrajudicial executions, disappearances, torture, and other serious abuses over many years, reports UNB.
Human Rights Watch reiterated its longstanding call that RAB be disbanded, and replaced with a fully accountable civilian law enforcement agency dedicated to fighting crime and terrorism.
"This is a good opportunity for Bangladesh to deliver on its longstanding promise of zero tolerance for human rights violations by security forces," said Adams. "RAB should be disbanded and replaced with a fully civilian force that operates under the rule of law and has external oversight. Death squads have no place in a democracy."
The international rights body made the call in an open letter to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, according to a HRW web release.
"After years of refusing to investigate Rab, the government has changed course and reacted quickly to the Narayangunj murders," said Brad Adams, Asia director.