Strict action if army personnel found involved in enforced disappearance: Army HQ
The official acknowledges that there are allegations suggesting the involvement of certain army members in such incidents
Highlights:
- Disappearance allegations against deputed army members under investigation
- Army members on deputation remain under military control, says official
- Army ready to assist disappearance victims seeking safety
- No EC directive yet, but army prepared for fair elections
- 80% of looted weapons recovered; rest expected before polls
- Army arrests over 400 juvenile gang members amid rising concerns
The Army Headquarters has said strict action will be taken against any member of the armed forces if found guilty of involvement in enforced disappearances.
"Some army personnel, who were on deputation to various agencies, have been accused of involvement in such incidents. The matter is under investigation," said Colonel Md Shafiqul Islam, Colonel Staff of the Military Operations Directorate, during a press briefing at Officers' Mess 'A' in Dhaka Cantonment today (3 July).
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"Once army members are sent on deputation, they no longer remain under direct army control. Allegations have surfaced that some of them were involved in such incidents. If the investigation confirms this, the army will take appropriate action against them," he added.
Speaking about the families of disappearance victims, he said, "If anyone seeks assistance from the army for their safety, we are ready to help in any way we can."
In response to a question on the upcoming elections, Colonel Shafiqul said the army has not yet received any instructions from the Election Commission.
"However, we are prepared to assist in ensuring a free and fair election if called upon," he said.
Ex-army chief Shafiuddin, 2 officers accused of enforced disappearance in Int'l Crimes Tribunal
Regarding the incidents of weapons looting from police stations after the Awami League government's ouster last year, Colonel Shafiqul said approximately 80% of the stolen arms have already been recovered.
"We are hopeful the remaining 20% will be recovered before the elections," he added.
On the growing concern of juvenile crime, Colonel Shafiqul said the army has so far arrested over 400 members of juvenile gangs.
He acknowledged the operational challenges, noting, "While the army cannot be everywhere at once, we are responding swiftly whenever we receive information."
The official also highlighted recent achievements from ongoing joint operations.
He said over the past two weeks, the army has recovered 26 illegal firearms and 100 rounds of ammunition. "Since August, a total of 9,692 weapons have been recovered, and 15,646 individuals have been arrested, including 562 involved in various criminal activities."
