Bangladeshi Soldiers Killed in Sudan Laid to Rest

An atmosphere of profound grief and solemnity prevailed in Kurigram as the bodies of two Bangladeshi soldiers, who tragically lost their lives while serving on a United Nations peacekeeping mission in Sudan, were returned to their native villages and laid to rest with full military honours.

On Sunday, 21 December, the remains of Corporal Md. Mominul Islam and Private Shanto Mondal were flown to Bangladesh aboard a military helicopter, landing at the helipad in Ulipur Upazila, Kurigram. From there, two ambulances transported the fallen soldiers to their respective villages: Md. Mominul to North Pokondul village in Ulipur, and Shanto Mondal to Chat Madhai village in Rajarhat Upazila.

Both funerals were attended by family members, local residents, and military officials, who paid their respects to the brave men. The ceremonies were marked by traditional military rituals, reflecting the nation’s gratitude for their service and ultimate sacrifice.

Md. Mominul Islam, who joined the Bangladesh Army in 2008, had recently been deployed to the UN mission in Sudan earlier this year. He leaves behind two young daughters. His death has cast a sombre shadow over his village, where relatives and neighbours mourned the loss of a devoted father and a courageous soldier.

Shanto Mondal, who enlisted in 2018, was serving on his first peacekeeping mission when he was killed in a bomb attack carried out by rebel forces in Sudan. He had married Dilruba Akter Bristi two years ago, and his wife is currently five months pregnant, adding to the family’s grief.

The local administration, alongside military personnel, ensured that both funerals were conducted with full protocol, including the playing of the last post, military honours, and ceremonial salutes, paying homage to the soldiers’ bravery and dedication. The villagers gathered in large numbers, offering prayers and expressing their sorrow at the untimely loss of two young lives committed to national and international service.

This tragic event highlights the risks faced by Bangladeshi peacekeepers serving abroad under the United Nations banner, while also reinforcing the nation’s commitment to honouring and remembering its fallen heroes.

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