RAB-15 transfers 634 members amid allegations of yaba-linked irregularities

The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has transferred 634 members from its RAB-15 battalion, which covers Cox's Bazar and Bandarban. 

The move follows allegations that some personnel were linked to yaba-related illegal activities, although RAB headquarters said the transfers were part of a regular process.

The command structure at RAB-15 has also changed. Battalion Commander Lt Col Kamrul Islam has been attached to RAB headquarters, and Army Lt Col Mohammad Neyamul Halim Khan has been appointed as the new commanding officer.

The transfers, covering all ranks, were made through five orders issued by RAB headquarters between 12 and 27 November. More than 300 members were withdrawn from Cox's Bazar, with a similar number brought in from other units.

The directives, signed by RAB Deputy Director (Administration) Major Faisal Ahmed, outlined the scale of the reshuffle. On 19 November, two orders transferred 198 and 200 members. An order on 17 November reassigned 100 members. Earlier, an order on 12 November moved 62 members, and the latest on 27 November transferred 74 more.

Wing Commander MZM Intekab Chowdhury, director of RAB's media wing, said the transfers were routine, adding that the outgoing commanding officer had completed his tenure in Cox's Bazar and was attached to headquarters as part of standard rotation. He confirmed that more than 300 officers and members were recently moved under regular policies.

Asked about allegations of involvement in drug trafficking, he said, "If anyone is found involved, RAB will take legal and punitive action after investigation." He added that not all RAB-15 members were withdrawn.

Internal RAB sources, however, pointed to irregularities in the unit. They said some officers in Cox's Bazar operated plainclothes "FS (field staff) operatives" or "civil teams," similar to police intelligence units. Allegations suggest that certain civil teams had established contact with yaba traders, facilitating smugglers, negotiating settlements and sharing illicit profits.

Following these reports, the former commanding officer, Lt Col Kamrul Islam, and several other key officers were withdrawn and reassigned.

The reshuffle comes amid local concerns and follows a recent incident in which an officer from the Kutubpalong RAB camp allegedly raided a house, seized Tk60 lakh in cash and four lakh yaba pills, and reportedly shared the seized items among themselves.