The Voice News: Colonel Md. Shafiqul Islam stated that the Bangladesh Army will not be involved in any activities that pose a threat to national security. He made this statement during a press briefing at Army Headquarters on Monday in response to a journalist’s question regarding the corridor issue.
He emphasized, “The army remains uncompromising on matters of corridor, national security, and sovereignty. Since August 5, the army has been working in coordination with all concerned to protect the country’s interests.”
Warning against the creation of mobs, the Colonel stated, “If anyone attempts to create disorder through mob activity, the army will take strict action.”
Regarding the recovery of KNF uniforms from a factory in Chattogram, Colonel Shafiqul Islam described the incident as alarming and assured that the army is closely monitoring the situation.
During the briefing, it was revealed that in the past 40 days, the army has recovered 241 illegal firearms and 709 rounds of ammunition. Since August, a total of 9,611 illegal firearms and 285,761 rounds of ammunition have been seized. Additionally, in the last month, 1,969 individuals involved in various crimes have been arrested, with a total of 14,266 arrested to date. These individuals include members of teen gangs, listed criminals, kidnappers, smugglers, fraudsters, extortionists, robbers, and muggers.
In a special operation on May 20 in the Bhashantek area, four foreign pistols and 28 rounds of ammunition were recovered, and 10 members of a notorious gang led by the criminal Hitlu Babu were arrested, providing a sense of relief and security among local residents.
The army reported that in the past 40 days alone, 487 drug dealers have been arrested, with a total of 4,400 drug-related arrests since August. Significant quantities of illegal drugs such as yaba, phensedyl, cannabis, and illicit alcohol have been recovered, contributing to improved community safety.
Since August 5, the army has been working tirelessly to ensure overall security in industrial areas. Over the past month, mobile courts have been operated across the country to ensure food safety. Legal action has been taken against individuals and organizations involved in the production, distribution, and marketing of adulterated baby food. In special operations in Jessore and Satkhira, members of a syndicate involved in selling shrimp laced with jelly were apprehended. These actions have built public trust in the army’s efforts to combat food adulteration.
The army has also facilitated treatment for 4,596 individuals injured during student movements following the July uprising, arranging medical care for them at various Combined Military Hospitals (CMH) across the country. Currently, 36 individuals remain under treatment.
Ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, the army has launched a two-week special initiative to ensure maximum security and smooth transportation for home-bound travelers. The program includes day and night patrols on major highways, setting up checkpoints at key points to control speeding, and preventing black market ticket sales. Awareness campaigns will also be conducted. Similar to Eid-ul-Fitr, the army will play a key role in ensuring the safety of lives and property, helping the public reach their destinations peacefully and enjoy a joyful Eid with their families.