Armed forces' magistracy powers extended by 60 more days for the fourth time

The magistracy powers of officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force have been extended for another 60 days for the fourth time, coming into effect from 14 May.

The Ministry of Public Administration issued a notification in this regard today (8 May).

According to the notification, commissioned officers holding the rank of captain and above in the Bangladesh Armed Forces have been granted special executive magistrate powers across the country.

Besides, military officers serving on deputation in the Coast Guard and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have also been vested with the same authority.

The powers conferred under sections 12 (1) and 17 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, will remain effective for a period of 60 days from the date of the notification.

This move ensures the extended involvement of armed forces officials in executive magistracy roles for maintaining law and order across the country.

Earlier, the government extended the magistracy powers of the armed forces officers for the third time for 60 days on 15 March, which is coming to an end on 13 May.

After the interim government came to power in August last year following the ouster of the Awami League-led government, armed forces members were granted magistracy powers to maintain law and order. The tenure of the power has since been gradually extended.