Amnesty for probe into army role

Amnesty International yesterday called upon the government to launch an investigation into the deaths of two indigenous people in Rangamati allegedly in army fire on February 20.
"Carry out a prompt, impartial, and independent investigation into these attacks and killings to identify individuals who set houses on fire and army personnel who may have used excessive force," urged Amnesty International in a statement.
It also urged the government to hold fair trials of the people responsible but refrain from sentencing them with death penalty.
"With the allegations that state officials, including army personnel, might have acted in favour of Bangalee settlers, there is a risk of incriminating evidence being destroyed before independent observers, including journalists, could visit the spots," the statement observed.
Amnesty International also expressed its concern over the restriction on indigenous peoples' access to media and obstacles for journalists and independent observers in visiting the area.
"Visits of journalists and observers are necessary to have an independent assessment of what has happened and identify people responsible for the incident," the statement read.
Amnesty International also asked the government to ensure treatment of the injured, rehabilitation of the people who lost their homes and belongings and legal support for detained indigenous people.