31 May 2018 | 02:12 AM UTC
Bangladesh: Over 100 suspected drug dealers killed as of May 29 /update 2
Security forces kill over 100 suspected drug dealers during nationwide operations as of May 29; additional raids on alleged drug dealers expected in the coming weeks
Event
Over 100 suspected drug dealers have been killed by security forces in Bangladesh in the last two weeks as of Tuesday, May 29. The deaths comes amid a larger crackdown on drug traffickers nationwide that was launched on May 15. Some 12,000 people have also been arrested in the operations. Additional police raids and arrests of suspected drug dealers are expected in Bangladesh in the near-term; further killings of alleged drug traffickers are also possible in the coming weeks.
Context
Bangladesh has struggled to control a surge in illegal drugs crossing its southeastern border with Myanmar. Previously, as of mid-May, Bangladeshi security forces had arrested some 1700 suspected drug traffickers in a nationwide, week-long, anti-drug campaign designed to curb the trade of methamphetamine drugs along the country's borders.
Advice
Individuals present in Bangladesh are advised to maintain vigilant, report any suspicious objects and activities, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.