Dhaka, Feb. 22 -- Veteran investigative journalist Saleem Samad has died at the age of 74 after a prolonged battle with cancer.

Saleem passed away at a hospital in Dhaka's Dhanmondi around 11:30am on Sunday, said Mainul Hasan Sohel, general secretary of the Dhaka Reporters' Unity.

He had more than 35 years of experience in investigative journalism across South Asia, and published numerous reports on conflict, security, forced migration, Islamic jihad, good governance, electoral democracy and press freedom.

Saleem received the Ashoka Fellowship in 1991 for his work on environment and development. Over his career, he earned several accolades and international awards.

He had also served as a media advisor to international organisations, ...