Mob killings surge in May, MSF records 32 deaths nationwide

A total of 32 people were killed in incidents of mob violence across Bangladesh in May, making it the highest monthly death toll in the past six months, according to a report released by the Manabadhikar Shongskriti Foundation (MSF).

The human rights organisation said its monthly monitoring found 71 people were critically injured in at least 69 separate incidents during the month. The figures show a sharp rise compared to April, when 21 people were killed and 49 were injured.

MSF noted that mob-related deaths had fluctuated over the previous months, including 19 in March, 18 in February, 21 in January and 10 in December, indicating a continuing but unstable pattern. The organisation warned that the rising number of killings reflects an increasing tendency among citizens to take the law into their own hands.

In May, 14 of the deaths were linked to allegations of theft, while four followed personal altercations. Two cases each were associated with robbery and allegations of rape or sexual assault. At least 35 injured victims were later handed over to law enforcement authorities.

The report also stated that members of law enforcement agencies were attacked in several mob-related incidents.

MSF highlighted that the rise in mob violence has continued despite repeated assurances from the home minister that such incidents would not be tolerated and that legal measures would be strengthened if necessary.

Beyond mob violence, the report recorded a total of 326 incidents of violence against women and children in May, up from 314 in April. Rape cases rose sharply by nearly 40 per cent, reaching 70 incidents, while 16 gang-rape cases were reported. Cases of rape followed by murder also increased from two to six.

The organisation also mentioned several border-related deaths, including incidents along the Bangladesh-India and Bangladesh-Myanmar borders, as well as seven deaths in jail custody during the month. Political violence remained relatively stable, though injuries declined compared to the previous month.

MSF called for stronger enforcement of the rule of law and urgent measures to prevent further incidents of mob violence nationwide.