DHAKA: The Director General of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), AKM Shahidur Rahman, announced today that the force will not engage in extrajudicial killings or enforced disappearances. He emphasized that any involvement in such actions is considered a criminal offense and warned of severe legal consequences for RAB members found guilty of these crimes. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the RAB chief made these statements during a briefing at the RAB Media Centre in Karwan Bazar. Shahidur Rahman assured that the force is fully cooperating with the commission investigating allegations of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and the existence of detention centers known as Aynaghar. He noted that the facilities of the force remain unchanged to aid the commission's investigation as per the directives of the relevant authorities. Addressing allegations against RAB personnel, Shahidur Rahman stated that legal actions have already been taken against 16 members for extortion-related accusations . He affirmed that no member of the force would be spared if found guilty of misconduct. The DG also mentioned that the force is considering a change in its uniform and is in the process of formulating a specific law for RAB, which currently operates under the Armed Police Battalions (Amendment) Act, 2003. Regarding the firing of gunshots from RAB helicopters during the anti-discrimination student movement, Rahman stated that the incident is under trial at the International Crimes Tribunal, and the facts will emerge through proper investigation. When questioned about a political party's demand for the abolition of RAB, he expressed the force's commitment to working with sincerity and dedication as long as they are in charge, while welcoming any decision by the government. On the progress of the Twaki murder case in Narayanganj, the RAB chief reported that 11 individuals have been arrested, with three having given confessional statements. He indicated significant progress in the investigation and promised to take legal measures upon its completion. Rahman concluded by stating that the law and order situation has improved over the past four months but emphasized the necessity of public cooperation to maintain it.
