Dhaka, Mar 3: China has expressed deep shock over the death of army officers and civilians in the February 25-26 mutiny at the BDR headquarters

A statement by a spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China said: "As a friendly close neighbour, the Chinese side hopes Bangladesh enjoy political stability, economic development and social harmony."

Conveying sympathies to the family members, the statement also said, "We hope and believe that with the joint efforts of Bangladesh government and people, Bangladesh can maintain peace, stability and solidarity."

Meanwhile, an investigation committee of the army, led by Quartermaster General of Bangladesh Army, Lt General Mohammad Jahangir Alam Choudhury, will probe the incident.

This was told by Chief of General Staff of Bangladesh Army Lt General Sina Ibn Jamali here last night.

Lt General Sina said those who were involved in the mutiny would be brought to justice fast by the government.

"The government will form a special tribunal to try the culprits and if required a bill will be passed in Parliament in this regard. Legal punitive measures will be taken against the perpetrators," he added.

Lt General Sina said they have so far retrieved 56 bodies. Three bodies await DNA tests for identification. Forty officers survived the mutiny, the Daily Star reports. (ANI)