Bring Oprotim’s killers to justice

We are deeply shocked by the brutal killing of 13-year-old Ishiat Shahriar Oprotim in Cumilla. A Class-VII student, Oprotim reportedly went missing after leaving home on September 18 to take photographs using his mother’s iPhone. His body was recovered nearly 24 hours later from an isolated area of the Lalmai hills, while three young men have been detained in connection with the killing. According to preliminary information obtained by police, Oprotim was taken there so the phone could be snatched and was allegedly murdered when he resisted. This incident is yet another reminder of how unsafe and vulnerable our children remain, even in their own communities.

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Expedite justice in all child abuse cases

The number of child disappearances and deaths recorded in recent months is staggering. According to Police Headquarters data, 15,717 children were reported missing during the first seven months of 2026. Although more than 13,600 were later recovered, 2,038 still remained missing. Moreover, 155 children were killed during the first eight months of this year, according to data collected by Ain o Salish Kendra. These included deaths following physical violence, rape, attempted rape, abduction, and other forms of abuse. ASK also recorded the recovery of the bodies of 36 children who had gone missing during the same period. Some recent cases of missing children being found dead after sexual assault further underline the grave risks facing our children.

Moreover, the alleged involvement of teenagers in Oprotim’s killing demands a closer look at the rise of teen gangs. Such gangs, according to media reports, have become increasingly involved in violence and other crimes, including murder, extortion, drug peddling, and sexual harassment and assault. While police are still investigating whether the suspects in this case had links to any gangs, their alleged involvement in such a brutal crime should itself be a serious warning. The reported presence of youth gangs and drug users around Cumilla’s Lalmai hill area also warrants a thorough investigation.

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The alarming rise of teen gangs

We urge the police to investigate the case thoroughly and within a reasonable timeframe. All available evidence, including CCTV footage and forensic findings, should be properly examined, and anyone found responsible must face punishment under applicable laws. At the same time, relevant authorities must become more proactive in responding to reports of missing children and strengthen systems to trace them faster. Stronger policing, surveillance, and intelligence are needed in areas known for a prevalence of criminal activities, while risky public spaces must be made safer. Families, schools, and communities must also work together to strengthen social networks and create a safe environment where children can seek help when they feel at risk. No parent should have to wonder whether a child who leaves home for a short while will return safely. We owe it to innocent victims like Oprotim to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and that stronger safeguards are put in place to prevent such tragedies in future.