Sylhet expatriates may hire Ansar personnel to guard homes: Deputy Commissioner

Sylhet expatriates may soon be able to appoint Bangladesh Ansar personnel to safeguard their homes and properties, as the district administration moves to address long-standing security concerns among overseas Bangladeshis.

Speaking to reporters during visits to government offices and public events in Osmaninagar on Wednesday (July 22), newly appointed Sylhet Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Abdullah Al Mamun said the initiative is under consideration as part of efforts to better protect expatriates' assets.

He noted that a significant number of Sylhet residents live abroad, leaving many homes unoccupied for extended periods. These properties often become targets of encroachment, theft and other criminal activities, prompting repeated calls from expatriates for stronger security measures.

"The district administration is considering a system that would allow interested expatriates to hire Ansar members to protect their homes and properties," the deputy commissioner said.

He added that the proposal will be discussed with senior officials of the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party (VDP) before a final decision is taken and implementation begins.

During the briefing, the deputy commissioner also provided an update on the Sylhet-Dhaka highway expansion project, saying land acquisition has been completed for most sections. Acquisition work is now underway in parts of Dayamir and Sadipur unions in Osmaninagar, while compensation to affected landowners will be disbursed promptly in accordance with the law upon submission of applications.

Osmaninagar Upazila Ansar and VDP Officer Shamsun Nahar said the deputy commissioner's proposal has already been communicated to higher authorities, and further action will depend on their decision.