Dhaka: Germany has called upon the government of Bangladesh to take all necessary steps to ensure a swift and thorough investigation into the murders of Mahbub Tonoy and Xulhaz Mannan.

German Ambassador in Dhaka Dr Thomas Prinz on Tuesday said in a statement, ‘I call upon the government of Bangladesh to take all necessary steps to ensure a swift and thorough investigation.’

Ambassador Prinz said they have seen far too many incidents like this in the past months and now is the time for the whole society to stand up and defend the fundamental right to freedom of expression.

He said this is not only an attack on two brave individuals, but also an attack on the freedom of expression in Bangladesh.

‘I’m deeply saddened and shocked about yesterday’s (Monday’s) gruesome murders of Mahbub Tonoy and Xulhaz Mannan. I strongly condemn the appalling assaults on these two outspoken human rights activists,’ said the Ambassador adding, ‘My thoughts are with the families and friends of the deceased.’