In a poignant moment of national mourning, Bangladesh today receives the bodies of six soldiers martyred in a terrorist drone attack in Sudan’s Abyei region. The attack, targeting the Kadugli Logistics Base under the UNISFA mission, occurred on 13th December and claimed the lives of six peacekeepers while injuring eight others.
The remains arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Saturday via Emirates Airlines. Lieutenant General Mizanur Rahman Shamim, Chief of General Staff of the Bangladesh Army, personally received the fallen soldiers. Also present were high-ranking military and civilian dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority, representatives from the UN, and directors of army overseas operations. A minute of silence was held, followed by a Guard of Honour in tribute to the ultimate sacrifice of the six martyrs.
Funeral prayers are scheduled to be held today at the Central Mosque of Dhaka Cantonment. Following the Janaza, the bodies will be transported by helicopter to the martyrs’ respective home districts for burial with full military honours, reflecting the nation’s deep respect for their bravery.
The fallen heroes include Corporal Md. Masud Rana (Natore), Soldiers Md. Mominul Islam and Shanto Mondol (Kurigram), Soldier Shamim Reza (Rajbari), Mess Waiter Mohammad Jahangir Alam (Kishoreganj), and Laundry Staff Md. Sabuj Mia (Gaibandha). The injured soldiers are Lieutenant Colonel Khondkar Khalekuzzaman (Kushtia), Sergeant Md. Mostakim Hossain (Dinajpur), Corporal Afroza Parvin Iti (Dhaka), Lance Corporal Mohibul Islam (Barguna), Soldier Md. Mezboul Kabir (Kurigram), Soldier Mosa Umme Hani Akhtar (Rangpur), Soldier Chumki Akhtar (Manikganj), and Soldier Md. Manazir Ahsan (Noakhali).
This tragic event underscores the sacrifices made by Bangladesh’s peacekeepers in the line of duty abroad. The nation stands united in grief and honour, recognising the courage, dedication, and selflessness of its soldiers, who continue to serve global peace even at the risk of their own lives. Their legacy will forever remain a testament to bravery and unwavering national pride.