ASK condemns CMP chief's 'shoot on sight' order, calls it violation of rule of law

Instructions to open fire instantly on armed criminals using submachine guns (SMGs) encourage extrajudicial killings and constitute a direct violation of the constitution, the rule of law, and international human rights standards, said human rights organisation Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) today (12 November), expressing grave concern over the directive issued by Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) Commissioner Hasib Aziz. 

In a statement, ASK said Articles 31 and 32 of the Constitution guarantee every citizen's right to life and legal protection, emphasising that "even a suspected offender cannot be targeted or killed without due legal process". 

The organisation urged the government to take immediate and appropriate action regarding the CMP commissioner's remarks and to issue a clear directive reminding law enforcement agencies of their constitutional and human rights obligations. 

ASK also called on the government to make an unequivocal declaration that extrajudicial killings or "shoot-to-kill" orders have no place within the country's legal or policy framework. 

Highlighting that the state's foremost duty is to protect the lives and dignity of its citizens, ASK described the commissioner's statement as "contrary to responsible administrative conduct" and a "serious challenge to the principles of justice and human rights." 

It demanded the immediate withdrawal of the order, warning that such directives could result in further loss of life and extrajudicial incidents, thereby undermining democracy and the rule of law.

According to multiple media reports, on 11 November, CMP Commissioner Hasib Aziz verbally instructed patrol and station police via wireless communication to immediately shoot any suspected armed individuals. Reportedly, patrol teams have been directed to carry shotguns, two gas guns, and 9mm pistols for team in-charges, while the number of permanent check-posts has been increased from seven to 13.

Confirming the content of the wireless message, several CMP officials said the commissioner had ordered that shotguns or China rifles should no longer be used and that patrols would now operate in "SMG brushfire mode". 

The commissioner reportedly told officers that they were entitled to self-defence under the penal code and assured them that he would take full responsibility for the order.

Speaking to journalists, CMP Commissioner Hasib Aziz confirmed his stance, saying, "I have instructed the police to use SMGs for brushfire against armed criminals. They have been given clear orders to shoot on sight." 

He justified the directive, citing a recent incident in which an individual was shot dead in broad daylight during a public campaign, adding that the measure was intended to restore public safety and confidence.

Earlier, on 12 August, Hasib Aziz had issued a similar wireless order instructing police to open fire in self-defence if anyone brandished a weapon during patrols or raids in Chattogram. 

That directive also drew public attention after Sub-Inspector Abu Sayeed Rana was injured in an attack allegedly by Awami League activists in the city's Bandar area the day before.