Staff Reporter :
The Bangladesh Army has pledged firm disciplinary measures against any personnel found to be involved in cases of enforced disappearances.
The assurance came from the Army Headquarters during a press briefing held on Thursday at the Officers’ Mess in Dhaka Cantonment.
Colonel Md Shafiqul Islam, Staff Officer at the Military Operations Directorate, acknowledged that several army personnel, currently on deputation to various government agencies, have been accused of involvement in such incidents.
“These allegations are under active investigation. If found guilty, strict action will be taken,” he stated.
Responding to questions from journalists regarding recent developments, Colonel Shafiqul emphasised that even while on deputation, army personnel remain under the jurisdiction of the military. “There are indeed allegations implicating some individuals.
The Army will not hesitate to take necessary disciplinary steps if those claims are substantiated,” he said.
He further noted that the army is prepared to provide assistance to the families of victims of enforced disappearances. “If any individual approaches us for protection or support, we stand ready to help in every possible way,” he added.
Addressing queries on the upcoming national election, Colonel Shafiqul clarified that the army has not yet received any formal deployment instructions from the Election Commission. “However, we are fully prepared to support the electoral process and contribute to a free and fair election if called upon,” he affirmed.
Commenting on the recovery of weapons looted from police stations following the ouster of the Awami League government last year, he said that approximately 80 per cent of the stolen arms have already been recovered. “We are confident that the remaining 20 per cent will be retrieved before the elections,” he noted.
Turning to the issue of juvenile crime, Colonel Shafiqul revealed that the army has detained over 400 members of juvenile gangs in recent months. “While we cannot maintain a constant presence everywhere, we act swiftly whenever actionable information is received,” he explained.
Highlighting the results of recent joint operations, he reported that the army had recovered 26 illegal firearms and 100 rounds of ammunition in the past two weeks. Since August, the military has recovered 9,692 illegal weapons and arrested 15,646 individuals, including 562 suspects involved in criminal activities.
Colonel Shafiqul concluded by reiterating the army’s commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring public safety, especially in the lead-up to the national elections.
