Rivers turn into dumping zone for dead bodies

Rivers around Dhaka have become dumping zones for homicide victims, sparking fear and insecurity among those who use the waterways, according to residents. 

In 2024, 36 bodies were found each month on average in various rivers, but the number has climbed to 43 this year. Nearly 30 per cent of the bodies remain unidentified.

Data from the River Police shows a sharp increase in bodies being recovered from rivers across Bangladesh.

In 2024, 440 bodies were recovered from various rivers, of which 299 were identified, while 141 remained unknown.

In the first seven months of this year alone, 301 bodies were recovered, 92 of which could not be identified.

River Police officials told reporters that the most bodies recovered are in a decomposed state, making fingerprint or facial identification impossible.

They also acknowledged a shortage of manpower and resources, hindering round-the-clock monitoring of rivers nationwide.

“We don’t have as many units as needed, and there is also a lack of logistical support,” said Abdullah Al Mamun, superintendent of River Police for the Dhaka region.

“However, efforts are underway to increase both manpower and equipment,” he added.

Crime analysts recommend installing CCTV cameras, boosting patrols, and increasing surveillance in crime-prone river areas to curb such incidents.