DHAKA: The Bangladesh Army has successfully recovered over 6,000 illegal firearms and detained more than 2,500 individuals as part of its initiative to enhance national security following the student-led uprising that resulted in the ousting of Sheikh Hasina on August 5. Col Intekhab Haider Khan, Colonel Staff of the Directorate of Military Operations, shared the details during a press briefing at the Officers Mess-A of the Army Headquarters.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Army’s operations are currently active in 62 districts across the nation, working closely with the interim government and various stakeholders including ministries, law enforcement agencies, and local administrations to maintain law and order. The Army’s responsibilities include safeguarding citizens, critical infrastructure, and vital public and private institutions. Additionally, they are aiding the police in regaining operational capacity and ensuring the safety of foreign diplomats, embassies, and industrial areas to pre
vent anarchy and ensure economic stability.
Col Khan highlighted that the Army has been involved in keeping garment factories operational, with nearly all 2,089 factories in the country running smoothly. The Army has also managed to control over 700 chaotic situations, including incidents in educational institutions and government offices, as well as political conflicts. Their timely interventions have been crucial in averting potential losses of life and property.
To bolster security, permanent camps have been established in diplomatic zones, and the Army is actively engaged in the fight against illegal drugs, arresting over 700 individuals involved in drug trafficking. The interim government’s decision to grant executive magistracy powers to Army officers has significantly improved the law and order situation nationwide.
The Army played a pivotal role in ensuring the safe celebration of religious festivals, including Durga Puja, Prabarana Purnima, and Kathin Chibar Dan, by deploying additional troops and
setting up extra camps. They also provided medical care to those injured during the anti-discrimination student movement, treating 3,295 individuals across various military hospitals.
Col Khan reassured that the Army is committed to upholding human rights, emphasizing that clear directives have been issued against any form of extrajudicial killings. The Army remains steadfast in its efforts to prevent such occurrences.