BTRC warns against unlicensed walkie-talkie

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has warned of strict legal action against individuals and organisations involved in the use, possession, import, marketing or operation of walkie-talkies and other wireless communication devices without the required licences.

In a press release issued on Thursday, the telecom regulator said joint enforcement drives involving the commission and law enforcement agencies are underway in Dhaka and other parts of the country to crack down on illegal telecommunications equipment and installations.

According to the BTRC, the ongoing operations have led to the seizure of unlicensed walkie-talkies from various establishments.

Cases are also being filed with the relevant police stations against those found violating the law.
The commission said that under the amended provisions of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Act, 2001, obtaining spectrum allocation and a wireless equipment licence from the BTRC is mandatory for the use, possession, import, sale or operation of any walkie-talkie or wireless communication device.

Using such equipment without the necessary authorisation constitutes a punishable offence under existing laws, the regulator added.

The BTRC urged businesses, security service providers, hotels, restaurants, shopping centres and other commercial establishments to ensure compliance with licensing requirements before using any wireless communication equipment.

The regulator stressed that no individual or organisation is permitted to operate walkie-talkies or similar wireless devices without proper approval and licensing from the commission.

The warning comes amid ongoing efforts by authorities to strengthen oversight of radio frequency usage and prevent the unauthorised operation of wireless communication systems that could interfere with regulated telecommunications services.

The BTRC said enforcement operations against illegal and unlicensed wireless equipment would continue across the country and reiterated that strict action would be taken against anyone found violating the law.

The commission also called on all individuals and businesses to comply with existing laws and regulations in the public interest and to help ensure an orderly and lawful wireless communication environment.