Karwan bazar: Newly appointed Director General of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) Md Ahsan Habib Palash stated on Sunday that the force has not received any requests from the International Crimes Tribunal concerning allegations of enforced disappearances and crossfire incidents. However, he assured full cooperation if approached.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the DG emphasized that any request related to judicial proceedings would be duly honoured. He made these remarks during a media briefing at the RAB Media Centre located in the capital’s Karwan Bazar. Responding to inquiries about the Chief Prosecutor’s comments on reviewing RAB’s crossfire records, the DG assured that RAB would cooperate fully in any judicial process. He mentioned that the force would share available information but noted that the tribunal has not yet reached out to them.
Regarding domestic and international calls for disbanding RAB, the DG stated that such decisions are under the government’s purview. He highlighted RAB’s role in fulfilling its duties and building public trust through its actions. Addressing past allegations of political misuse, the DG suggested that recent activities indicate a decline in major irregularities, asserting that RAB can play a constructive role if managed correctly.
Concerning piracy and separatism, he stated that intelligence surveillance has been increased, with operations conducted based on gathered information. While not directly commenting on militancy, he reaffirmed RAB’s ongoing efforts against all forms of terrorism.
The DG expressed concern about the rising issue of juvenile gangs in the country, noting the challenges in bringing juveniles under the law. He urged journalists to support efforts through investigative reporting. On the topic of RAB’s possible renaming or restructuring, he clarified that it is a policy matter for the government, emphasizing that their priority is duty performance. He assured that internal investigations into human rights violation allegations are ongoing and that accountability will be enforced.
Regarding US sanctions, the DG acknowledged they arose from past shortcomings, expressing hope that addressing these issues would prevent future sanctions.