JHENIDAH: Two Bangladeshis were killed in firing by Indian border troops early hours Tuesday as they reportedly crossed the border to bring cattle.

BDR sources said the deceased were Obaidul Islam, 32, son of Abul Kashem of Paddapukur village, and Akba Ali, 30, son of Nurul Islam of the village Sejia under Moheshpur upazila of the district.  

“The members of BSF from Pakhiura camp fired 10-15 shots, killing them on the spot. The BSF men took away the bodies into the Indian territories,” the sources said, quoting a spot account of the shootings.

Chuadanga 35 rifles battalion CO Lt. Col. Sultan Ahmed said since BSF was keeping vigilance over the frontier, it is being difficult to send any man across the border. Bangladesh border troops, protesting the killings, have proposed a flag meeting.

Moheshpur thana police officer Mamunur Rashid Mondol said he has heard about the killings, but no details about the incident.

Shamkur Union Chairman of Moheshpur thana Shahanur Rahman said, “The border is tense after the killings.”

BDST/ 1500 HRS, JULY 20, 2010