Cox's Bazar:Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed announced plans to increase security measures at Rohingya camps in Cox's Bazar. Initiatives include rebuilding damaged barbed-wire fencing, installing CCTV cameras, solar-powered lights, and establishing two new army camps in hotspots for abduction and extortion.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, these decisions emerged from a regular coordination meeting of the National Committee on forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals, chaired by the Home Minister. Attendees included ministers, the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner, and representatives from the Armed Forces Division and law enforcement agencies.
The enhanced security measures involve repairing camp fencing, installing surveillance equipment, and setting up solar lights, watchtowers, and control towers. The new army camps in Rongikhali and Noakhalipara will be under the 10th Infantry Division's command from Ramu.
Joint operations in normal circumstances are led by a DIG of the Armed Police Battalion (APBn), with emergency operations falling under a Bangladesh Army brigadier general per the standard operating procedure.
The government is also focusing on boosting the APBn's investigative capabilities. About 400 sub-inspector-level officers have been given the authority to investigate crimes like drug trafficking and human trafficking within the camps.
The Home Minister noted the absence of any proposals for a separate prison for the Rohingyas. On repatriation, he expressed hope for eventual progress with UN leadership, despite the crisis's growing complexity.
The minister emphasized the importance of public confidence in the police, stating that maintaining trust is a core responsibility of the force.