Mob violence rises 39% in October: MSF

The number of people killed in mob violence increased by 39% in October compared to September, according to the Manabadhikar Shongskriti Foundation (MSF).

A total of 32 people were killed in mob violence during the month, up from 23 in September, the human rights organisation said.

The information was revealed in MSF’s monthly human rights situation monitoring report for October, released on Saturday.

The number of people injured in mob violence, however, declined to 54 in October from 74 in September.

Of those killed, 14 were accused of theft, one of murder and one of robbery. Five people were killed over altercations, while 11 others lost their lives in incidents involving extortion, land disputes, previous enmity, financial transactions, derogatory remarks and fraud.

According to the MSF report on political violence, four of the five people killed in internal party clashes were BNP activists, while the remaining one was an Awami League activist.

Of the nine people killed in attacks by unidentified assailants in October, seven were BNP activists and two were Awami League activists.

The organisation stressed the need for impartial investigations into all incidents of deaths, attacks and human rights violations, as well as ensuring accountability for those responsible.

It said the state has a responsibility to protect every citizen’s life, security and dignity, regardless of their political affiliation, religious beliefs or social status.