Investigation underway into Bangladeshi killed in New York police shooting: FM Dr Hasan Mahmud

Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud has announced that an investigation is underway regarding the incident in which a Bangladeshi young man was killed at his own home by police gunfire in New York’s Queens area in the US.

The minister said this in response to journalists' questions after a meeting on Saturday.

The foreign minister said: “This is extremely regrettable. We have expressed our sorrow for this incident, and an investigation is underway. If the police's overreaction or fault is proven, we hope the authorities will take appropriate action.

“The Bangladesh consul general in New York visited the home of the deceased Bangladeshi youth, Winn Rosario, and spoke with his family. It appeared to the family that there was no need for the police to shoot.”

Regarding the rescue operation of hostage ship MV Abdullah, the minister said: “The communication is ongoing to rescue the sailors from the clutches of Somali pirates safely and to free the MV Abdullah ship. We hope for a resolution through discussions very soon. All Bangladeshi sailors are in their cabins and are well. There is no issue with food and provisions.”

Regarding sending back Myanmar military members who have entered Bangladesh seeking refuge, he said: “Three military members of Myanmar, holding the ranks of major, captain, and sergeant, have newly entered Bangladesh. They are in the custody of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). These three individuals, along with all other Myanmar military members who have previously entered Bangladesh, will be sent back by sea route very soon.”

A 19-year-old Bangladesh-origin youth named Winn Rosario was killed on Wednesday.

The incident took place around 1:30pm (local time) on 101 Avenue in Wozniak Park, New York.

The New York Times reported that the young man was mentally unstable and called 911 for help before he was shot.