'Army will not be involved in activities that disrupt national security'

Lieutenant Colonel Md. Shafiqul Islam has said that the Bangladesh Army will not be involved in any activity that threatens national security.

He made this statement on Monday (May 26) during a press briefing held at the Army Headquarters.

Lt. Colonel Shafiqul Islam said that the Army maintains a zero-tolerance stance on issues such as corridors, national security, and sovereignty. Since August 5, the Army has been working in coordination with everyone to protect the interests of the country.

Warning against mob creation, he said that if anyone attempts to create a mob and cause chaos, the Army will take strict action against them.

Referring to the recent seizure of KNF (Kuki-Chin National Front) uniforms from a factory in Chattogram, Lt. Colonel Shafiqul Islam said that this is a concerning incident, and the Army is closely monitoring the matter.

According to the briefing, over the last 40 days, the Army has recovered 241 illegal firearms and 709 rounds of ammunition. Since August, the total number of recovered illegal weapons stands at 9,611, along with 285,761 rounds of ammunition.

In addition, over the past month alone, a total of 1,969 individuals involved in various crimes have been arrested. The total number of arrests since August is 14,266. These include members of juvenile gangs, listed criminals, kidnappers, smugglers, fraudsters, brokers, extortionists, robbers, muggers, and others.

A special operation was conducted in the Vashantek area on May 20, during which 4 foreign pistols, 28 rounds of bullets, and 10 members of a notorious gang led by criminal “Hitlu Babu” were arrested. This operation has brought relief and a sense of safety among local residents.

The briefing also stated that in the last 40 days, 487 drug dealers were arrested during joint operations, and since August, a total of 4,400 people involved in drug-related activities have been detained. A large quantity of illegal drugs including yaba, phensedyl, marijuana, and illegal liquor has been seized during this time, which has also contributed to increased public safety and confidence.

Since August 5, the Bangladesh Army has been tirelessly working to ensure overall security in industrial zones. In the past month, the Army has conducted mobile court drives in various parts of the country to ensure food safety. Legal actions have been taken against individuals and organizations involved in the production, marketing, and sale of adulterated baby food.

In special operations carried out in Jashore and Satkhira, a large quantity of jelly-injected shrimp was seized, and members of the syndicate responsible were arrested. These operations against food adulteration have built public trust and brought a sense of relief among citizens.

The Army also informed that, following the student movement in July, they have arranged proper medical treatment for 4,596 injured individuals at various Combined Military Hospitals (CMH) across the country. Among them, 36 people are still undergoing treatment.

The press briefing also stated that, on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha, the Army has taken special measures for two weeks—before and after Eid—to ensure maximum security and smooth transportation for homebound travelers. As part of this initiative, the Army will conduct day-and-night patrols on national highways and in key locations such as bus terminals, railway stations, and launch terminals.

Checkpoints will be set up in sensitive areas to control vehicle overspeeding. In addition, campaigns will be conducted to prevent ticket scalping and the sale of tickets at inflated prices. Just like during Eid-ul-Fitr, the Army will play an active role in ensuring public safety and security of life and property.

The Army will also help people reach their destinations safely and peacefully so they can enjoy Eid joyfully with their families and loved ones.