The Bangladesh Army has stated that it will take strict action against any of its members found involved in incidents of enforced disappearance.
The assurance came during a press briefing on Thursday at the Officers` Mess ‘A’ in Dhaka Cantonment, where Colonel Md Shafiqul Islam, Colonel Staff of the Military Operations Directorate, addressed the media on recent law and order issues.
In response to a question about alleged involvement of army personnel in enforced disappearances, Colonel Shafiqul clarified that some members, while serving on deputation in various agencies, operate outside the direct control of the army.
“There are allegations against a few deputed personnel. If any involvement is proven through investigation, the army will take appropriate disciplinary measures,” he said.
He also assured affected families, stating, “If any individual seeks protection from the army, we are committed to providing assistance through appropriate channels.”
When asked about the upcoming national elections, Colonel Shafiqul said the Army had not yet received any deployment request from the Election Commission. “If called upon, we are fully prepared to ensure a free and fair election,” he added.
Regarding recent incidents of arms looting from police stations, the army official informed that around 80 percent of the stolen weapons have already been recovered. “We are hopeful that the remaining 20 percent will be retrieved before the elections.”
On the issue of youth gang violence, Colonel Shafiqul revealed that over 400 teenage gang members have been arrested as part of ongoing operations.
“The army cannot be present in every alley at all times, but we are responding swiftly when information is received,” he emphasized.
The press briefing also included details of arrests and joint operations conducted over the past two weeks as part of national security measures.
