Some officers violated law, failed to perform duties during July-August protests: IGP

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam acknowledged significant lapses in police conduct during the protests in July and August, saying that some officers violated the law and failed to perform their duties. 

The police have faced considerable challenges since August 5, he said today in a press briefing at the Police Headquarters.

“There is no doubt that during the July protests, some police officers were politically involved, and several officers were killed in those incidents. Despite these events, the police have often remained inactive, and there have even been cases of information being withheld from journalists,” the IGP said.

"The present government is transparent. Unlike the previous government, there are no murders or abductions we need to conceal. We have nothing to hide now," he said.

The IGP said that improper appointments and frequent transfers have weakened the force‍‍`s effectiveness. “Since the political transition in Bangladesh, we have failed to place the right people in the right roles. 

On December 4, we formed mentoring and monitoring committees for each division to address this. Capable investigators will be assigned to critical areas to ensure law and order,” he said, emphasizing his primary responsibility to restore the police‍‍`s morale and public confidence.

Addressing the plight of officers affected by the protests, the IGP detailed the financial aid provided to the families of those killed and injured. 

“We have provided Tk 13 lakh to the families of each of the 44 officers who lost their lives and issued fixed deposits to others. Additionally, we remain in contact with the 2,500 injured officers and are covering their medical expenses,” he added.

The IGP also acknowledged that several senior police officials, including former Special Branch (SB) Chief Monirul Islam, Detective Branch (DB) Chief Harun ur Rashid, and DMP Commissioner Habibur Rahman remain missing.

When asked when the police force would resume full operations on the ground, the IGP was unable to provide a definitive timeline but assured that a comprehensive restructuring was underway. “A complete overhaul will happen soon,” he promised.