TRIBAL FAMILIES STAGE SIT-IN DEMONSTRATION TO DEMAND RELEASE OF THEIR KINS IN CHITTAGONG HILL TRACTS,...

Members of Bangladeshi tribal families stage sit-in demonstration to demand release of their kins arrested for suspected involvement in the kidnapping of three Europeans, at Guniapara near Rangamati hill town on February 28, 2001. At least 32 tribespeople were arrested following the abduction of two Danes and a Briton by suspected tribal guerrillas at Guniapara on February 16, for $1.6 million ransom. The three Europeans, consultant for a Danish road construction firm were abducted while they were inspecting a project. Bangladesh refused to pay the ransom and warned of commando action if a negotiated settlement could not be achieved. But the kidnappers are yet to show up for negotiation. NA/CC