DNC seeks specialised units to tackle drug trafficking
The Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) has drawn up a modernisation plan to strengthen its fight against drug trafficking through specialised investigative units, advanced detection technology, professional training and faster prosecution of narcotics-related cases.
The proposed roadmap includes a Cyber Security and Money Laundering Unit, a dedicated canine squad, a digital forensic laboratory and a specialised training academy.
It also proposes recruiting specialised public prosecutors and providing field-level officers with modern equipment, including body-worn cameras, wireless communication devices, portable drug detectors and advanced X-ray scanners.
DNC Additional Director General Mohammad Golam Azam told BSS that the action plan aimed to turn the department into a better-equipped, technology-driven and professionally trained enforcement agency capable of responding more effectively to changing drug-related threats.
Under the plan, the department intends to construct dedicated office buildings at district and upazila levels. It also plans to establish prosecution offices on the premises of Chief Metropolitan Magistrate courts to improve coordination between investigators and prosecutors.
The proposed canine squad would strengthen drug detection, while the Cyber Security and Money Laundering Unit would investigate technology-based drug trafficking and trace financial networks supporting the illegal trade.
A digital forensic laboratory is also planned to strengthen the collection and examination of electronic evidence in criminal investigations.
“Strengthening technological and forensic capabilities is essential to building evidence-based investigations and keeping pace with increasingly sophisticated drug trafficking networks,” Azam said.
The DNC has also proposed signing a memorandum of understanding with the Armed Police Battalion (APBN) to conduct joint anti-narcotics operations at airports and other strategic locations.
The proposed arrangement is expected to improve information-sharing and coordination at vulnerable entry points.
The roadmap also seeks to speed up the trial of narcotics-related cases and improve prosecution.
One proposal is to give departmental prosecutors the full authority of public prosecutors under relevant provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, subject to necessary legal and administrative approvals.
The department believes the move would improve the presentation of cases, strengthen coordination between investigators and prosecutors and reduce delays in court proceedings.
“Effective enforcement does not end with an arrest; it also requires strong evidence, competent prosecution and timely judicial proceedings,” Azam said.
However, the modernisation plan comes as the DNC faces manpower and logistical shortages.
According to department sources, the DNC has 2,272 personnel against an approved workforce of 2,943, leaving 671 posts vacant. The shortage has put additional pressure on field operations across the country.
Transport facilities are also inadequate, with official vehicles unavailable in 13 districts.
The department further lacks modern detection equipment, including X-ray scanners, handheld drug detectors and body-worn cameras. It also has no dedicated canine squad, digital forensic laboratory or specialised training academy.
Inadequate communication systems and wireless radio devices have added to the difficulties faced by field officers.
To increase public involvement in drug prevention, the DNC plans to introduce dedicated hotlines or call centres and install anti-drug awareness signboards.
The proposed roadmap places emphasis on recruitment, specialised training, improved logistics, modern technology and coordination with other law enforcement agencies.
Its implementation will require funding, recruitment to fill vacant posts, equipment procurement and effective coordination among the relevant agencies.
