Stricter measures helped curb mob violence nationwide: Army

The Bangladesh Army has said it has taken strict measures against mob violence and activities causing public suffering, resulting in a noticeable decline in such incidents across the country compared to previous times.

Col Md Shafiqul Islam, colonel staff of the Military Operations Directorate at Army Headquarters, shared the update during a press briefing held at the Officers' Mess in Dhaka Cantonment today (19 June).

Citing a recent mob violence incident in Rangpur, he noted that the swift response of army personnel helped bring the situation under control quickly.

Col Shafiqul also said the army would carry out its election-related responsibilities in line with the government's directives when they are given.

"We have not received any official directive yet, but the army will carry out its election-related responsibilities in line with the government's directive," he said.

Replying to a reporter's query, the officer said, "We have provided uninterrupted service at bus and train stations, as well as launch terminals during Eid-ul-Adha, and managed vehicle speeds at sensitive points through the establishment of check posts."

He credited these achievements to the army's dedication and commitment to national service.

He also noted a positive outcome in road safety, stating that fatalities in road accidents during this Eid declined by 30-40% compared to previous years.

When asked about the army's involvement during Eid-ul-Adha, Colonel Shafiqul said army personnel had maintained round-the-clock patrols at key bus and railway stations and launch terminals.

"Checkposts were also set up at sensitive locations to help control traffic. Alongside our male officers, female officers and soldiers were also on the ground, confidently carrying out their duties during the festival," he said.

"We managed to return over Tk35 lakh to the passengers from 1,255 vehicles," he added, noting that such outcomes were made possible by the army's sincerity, integrity and hard work in serving the people.

"Compared to previous Eids, we were able to reduce fatalities and serious injuries by 30% to 40% this year," he said.

Asked about the incident where a man was allegedly beaten for selling the national flag during an international football match, Colonel Shafiqul termed it a "regrettable and isolated event."

"All are aware that it was an international-level football match and all necessary security measures were in place. Besides, we later reached out to the flag vendor, expressed our sympathy and provided him with Tk1 lakh to help him continue his business successfully," he added.

In response to a question regarding possible push-ins from neighboring countries, Colonel Shafiqul said, "The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and Coast Guard are vigilant in these areas. Patrols have been increased along the borders and both permanent and temporary camps have been set up to strengthen security. Intelligence surveillance has also been intensified in those regions."

"At this stage, there has been no need for army involvement in this matter. Therefore, the issue is currently being handled by the BGB and Coast Guard," he added.

Regarding the recent arrests of several top criminals by the army, Colonel Shafiqul said "When we conduct operations to arrest top or any type of criminals, we maintain strict confidentiality. Our operational activities will continue in the future to arrest top criminals as needed."