The military has denied any use of lethal weapons during recent operations in Gopalganj, emphasizing neutrality in political matters. Colonel Staff Officer Mohammad Shafiqul Islam of the Military Operations Directorate stated that the army`s involvement was solely to ensure the safety of National Citizens Party (NCP) leaders who faced life-threatening threats in the area. He stressed that there was no favoritism towards any political party.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday afternoon at the Officers` Mess ‘A’ of Dhaka Cantonment, Colonel Shafiqul Islam highlighted that had the military not acted responsibly, a large-scale loss of life could have occurred. “Saving lives was our primary concern, not siding with any political faction,” he said.
Responding to questions about recent law and order situations, security in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, and clashes in Gopalganj, he clarified that the army treats all parties equally and takes action only to prevent damage to life and property. He confirmed that during the unrest in Gopalganj, not only stones and bricks but also homemade bombs were thrown. “When there is a threat to life, we resort to force, but no lethal weapons were used,” he added.
Regarding the repeated attacks on NCP gatherings in Gopalganj and the military’s role in preventing them, Colonel Shafiqul explained that assembly permissions are granted by local administration, and the army intervenes only when situations spiral out of control.
He recalled the July 16 incident when NCP activists faced multiple attacks, leading to violent clashes, grenade explosions, and gunfire, resulting in the deaths of four individuals, including a Jubo League member, and injuries to over a hundred police, journalists, and others. One injured person later died in hospital.
On security concerns in the Chittagong Hill Tracts involving alleged arms dealings with groups like the ‘Kuki-Chin’ and ‘Arakan Army,’ he said the army is actively providing protection and conducting operations, establishing temporary operating bases where necessary.
Addressing allegations that a major was training Awami League activists, Colonel Shafiqul confirmed that the matter is under investigation, with details to be disclosed upon completion.
Concluding the briefing, he reported that 5,576 individuals involved in drug trafficking and extortion have been arrested so far, emphasizing the importance of joint efforts among law enforcement agencies to combat crime more effectively. “We will continue our operations diligently,” he affirmed.
