[🇧🇩] Bangladesh Police and Rapid Action Battalion

[Saif]

Source : https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/diplomacy/news/us-lifting-rab-sanctions-3610341

'US for lifting Rab sanctions'
Salman F Rahman says after meeting Donald Lu

US Assistant Secretary Donald Lu. Photo: Reuters

US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Donald Lu yesterday told the government they will support the withdrawal of sanctions against Rapid Action Battalion, Prime Minister's Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman F Rahman said.

The US also asked Bangladesh to ensure timely payments to American companies conducting business here.

Rahman was briefing journalists after a meeting with Donald Lu at his Gulshan residence last night.

However, neither Lu nor the US embassy in Dhaka spoke publicly about the meeting.

Lu has been in the region since May 10, visiting India and Sri Lanka, and arrived in Dhaka yesterday morning.

Rahman claimed the US side told him that the White House is also for the withdrawal of sanctions, but they have a procedure that needs to be followed. Sanctions are within the jurisdiction of the US Department of Justice.

The US last year announced a visa policy for Bangladesh, saying those undermining democratic elections would be denied visas. Earlier in 2021, it imposed sanctions on Rab and some of its officials.

Rahman also said that US wants to rebuild trust in its relationship with Bangladesh.

"We both agreed that our relationship should be better than what it was prior to the elections. There might have been misunderstandings earlier."

Rahman said there were some reservations in the run-up to the elections, and even afterwards, but when US President Joe Biden wrote to the PM, it was understood that they have accepted the elections.

Biden wrote to the PM in February iterating their willingness to help Bangladesh achieve its economic goals.

Rahman said they did not talk about visa restrictions last night but "there are no visa restrictions now".

Concerning delayed payments to American companies, he quoted Lu as saying that the US understands there is considerable pressure on Bangladesh's central reserves.

"We said we are hopeful that our export and remittance will increase since we have devalued the taka recently. We pointed out that although payments are being delayed, we haven't halted them," he added.

Bangladesh also sought funding under the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC).

"They said Bangladesh needs to reform the labour sector as per the suggestions of the International Labour Organisation. We said we have amended the labour law and are continuing reforms. We hope to come to an understanding with ILO. Once done, we can get get DFC funding."

Bangladesh requested the US to put pressure on Myanmar for repatriation, said Rahman, adding that the US agreed to do so while also pointing out that since the situation in Myanmar is not safe, repatriation will take time.

The two also spoke about regional power connectivity between Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan, and the crisis in Gaza.

Dhaka's priority will be trade and economy, while Washington's will be security, especially advancing partnership under its Indo-Pacific Strategy, as Donald Lu holds meetings with the government high-ups today.

According to diplomatic sources and analysts, Washington is focused on strengthening its relations with the Indo-Pacific nations keeping China in mind, though it says it does not target any specific country.

Lu met with civil society members to discusse human rights, labour rights, environment, gender, and media freedom.

Today, he will hold a meeting with Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen and call on Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud and Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury.

"His trip will strengthen bilateral cooperation with each country and demonstrate US support for a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region," according to a statement issued by the US State Department ahead of Lu's visit to India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.

At a recent briefing in Dhaka, Maxwell Martin, political officer at the US embassy in Dhaka, said Washington wants to see Bangladesh as a net security provider, meaning that the country can support regional countries in terms of security as the country has the capacity.

"We would hope that Bangladesh sees the Indo-Pacific Strategy as an opportunity to cooperate with us and our partners to help address some of Bangladesh's security concerns," he said.

Washington's push for democracy, human rights, and good governance is also part of the US-led strategy, Martin said, referring to last year's US public statements on free and fair elections.

Nilanthi Samaranayake, a visiting expert at the US Institute of Peace and adjunct fellow at the East-West Center in Washington, in an article on April 30 said while the US raised the temperature on Bangladesh regarding the conduct of its election process before January, it appears to now be focused on the way forward in the relationship.

"As a result, a discussion about Dhaka signing the ACSA and the GSOMIA is worth reengaging on, ahead of annual partner dialogues between the two countries," she wrote.

Prof Obaidul Haque, of Dhaka University's international relations department, said Lu may press for signing the two agreements -- Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement on logistics and the General Security of Military Information Agreement -- to advance security and defense relationship.

"I don't think that Dhaka will sign the agreements now. It has a certain level of reluctance about it," he told The Daily Star yesterday.

In an email interview, Samaranayake said Dhaka is likely taking its time to study the specifics of the agreements and understand its options.

"The US agreements are bilateral and do not prevent Bangladesh from having partnerships with other countries such as China. Bangladesh's foreign policy approach is seen as open to multiple partnerships."

Besides, as a climate vulnerable country, Bangladesh needs huge funding from the developed countries. Bangladesh's annual funding requirement is of $9 billion for climate change initiatives, but the government allocates only $3 billion, resulting in a shortfall of $6 billion.

"We need funding as well as technologies. We would seek greater US contribution towards this. Also, the US has been the largest donor for Rohingyas, and we would seek their support for them," said a government official.

Bangladesh would also seek investments from the US, the single largest export market for Bangladesh.

Former ambassador M Humayun Kabir said Washington has great economic interests in Bangladesh, including in the oil and gas sectors.

US oil-gas company ExxonMobil has expressed interest in exploring oil and gas reserves in Bangladesh's offshore blocks.

"We need to decide everything from the view of our national interest," said Humayun.​

 

[Saif]

US sanctions against Rab to stay: State Department

The United States has said the sanctions imposed against Bangladesh's elite force Rab are not being withdrawn

www.thedailystar.net

US sanctions against Rab to stay: State Department

The United States has said the sanctions imposed against Bangladesh's elite force Rab are not being withdrawn.

"Those claims are false. The US is not withdrawing sanctions against the Rab," said Principal Deputy Spokesperson at the US Department of State Vedant Patel.

In a regular briefing at the US Department of State, he said sanctions are intended to change "behaviour and promote accountability".

On Tuesday night, PM's Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman Fazlur Rahman told reporters that the White House and the US Department of State are in favour of lifting sanctions on the Rab but it depends on the Department of Justice.

"The issue is with the US Department of Justice which is independent and separate from the White House and the State Department. They work independently," Salman F Rahman added.

"The issue is moving through a process," Salman said after his discussion over dinner with US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu who was on a three-day visit to Dhaka last week.​

 

[Saif]

What the US State Department said about lifting sanction on RAB.

 

[Saif]

Rab raids 'Arsa den' after 'gunbattle'; arrests 2

Rapid Action Battalion today arrested two suspected members of Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (Arsa) during a raid in a hill adjacent to Ukhiya Rohingya camp in Cox's Bazar this morning

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Rab raids 'Arsa den' after 'gunbattle'; arrests 2

Rapid Action Battalion today arrested two suspected members of Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (Arsa) during a raid in a hill adjacent to Ukhiya Rohingya camp in Cox's Bazar this morning.

The raid follows a gunbattle in the area in the early hours.

They also recovered arms, grenades and rocket shells during the raid on a den of Myanmar-based armed group at Lal Pahar area, according a notification sent to media by Rab this morning.

A bomb disposal unit of Bangladesh Army has reached the spot to destroy the recovered bombs and explosives, it added.

Rab will hold a press briefing later in the day to disclose more details in this regard.​

 

[Saif]

Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has done an excellent job in dismantling an ARSA den.

 

[Saif]

RAB raids city house, arrest three

Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) arrested three individuals allegedly involved in the production of hand bombs at a residence situated in Tekpara area of East Badda in the capital city on Wednesday night.

www.newagebd.net

RAB raids city house, arrest three
Staff Correspondent 23 May, 2024, 05:36

Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) arrested three individuals allegedly involved in the production of hand bombs at a residence situated in Tekpara area of East Badda in the capital city on Wednesday night.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Fahim, Limon, and Akul, according to RAB-3 Captain, Lieutenant Colonel Md Firoz Kabir. The operation was carried out based on intelligence report, he said.

Lt. Col. Kabir briefed the press, stating, 'We received intelligence suggesting the existence of a bomb-making operation affiliated with a group based in Narayanganj. This group has been clandestinely producing hand bombs using techniques reminiscent of militant organisations and distributing them across various regions, including Gazipur and Dhaka.'

During the raid, RAB confiscated a cache of 65 hand bombs along with materials used in their manufacturing.

Although three suspects were caught in the act, the homeowner remains missing.

Lt. Col. Kabir mentioned, 'We are currently probing any potential involvement of the homeowner in this illicit activity.'​

 

[Saif]

Police undergo major reshuffle

The Public Security Division of the Home Ministry issued four separate gazette notification to this end Sunday

en.prothomalo.com

Police undergo major reshuffle
Published: 28 Jul 2024, 22: 05

Bangladesh Police emblem

Bangladesh Police have made a major reshuffle with transferring two additional inspector generals of Police (AIGPs), five additional deputy inspector generals (ADIGs), and 48 Superintendents of Police (SP) ranking officials.

The Public Security Division of the Home Ministry issued four separate gazette notification to this end Sunday.

The two AIGPs who have been transferred are AKM Shahidur Rahman and Krishna Pada Roy.

In another notification, five additional DIGs have been transferred.

A total of 32 officials with the rank of SP, have been transferred through an order, while 16 others with the rank of SP have been transferred through another order.

The notifications will come into immediate effect.​

 

[Bilal9]

US sanctions against Rab to stay: State Department

The United States has said the sanctions imposed against Bangladesh's elite force Rab are not being withdrawn

www.thedailystar.net

US sanctions against Rab to stay: State Department

The United States has said the sanctions imposed against Bangladesh's elite force Rab are not being withdrawn.

"Those claims are false. The US is not withdrawing sanctions against the Rab," said Principal Deputy Spokesperson at the US Department of State Vedant Patel.

In a regular briefing at the US Department of State, he said sanctions are intended to change "behaviour and promote accountability".

On Tuesday night, PM's Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman Fazlur Rahman told reporters that the White House and the US Department of State are in favour of lifting sanctions on the Rab but it depends on the Department of Justice.

"The issue is with the US Department of Justice which is independent and separate from the White House and the State Department. They work independently," Salman F Rahman added.

"The issue is moving through a process," Salman said after his discussion over dinner with US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu who was on a three-day visit to Dhaka last week.​

I am glad that Salman Rahman is now shown as talking out of his hat. He spoke too soon.

 

[Saif]

Major reshuffle in police force

In a major reshuffle in the police force yesterday, three top police officials have been sent into forced retirement and five mid-ranking officials, who had been forced to retire by the Awami League government, have been reinstated.

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Major reshuffle in police force
3 top cops forced into retirement; 5 retired police officials reinstated

In a major reshuffle in the police force yesterday, three top police officials have been sent into forced retirement and five mid-ranking officials, who had been forced to retire by the Awami League government, have been reinstated.

Also, 24 district police superintendents were transferred to police units across the country.

The government also transferred 38 additional SP- and 14 assistant superintendent of police- (ASP) ranked officers from Dhaka Metropolitan Police to different police units, including in-service training centre, river police, and Rab.

Many of these officials have worked in the capital for years and had held major posts during the AL rule.

Forty-seven additional SP- and 10 ASP-ranked officers, who were outside Dhaka or in different units, have been transferred to the DMP.

Six deputy inspectors general and two additional inspectors general also got new posts.

Over the last one week, 13 top police officers have been sent into forced retirement in "public interest".

Many of these officials have been alleged to have used excessive force to suppress the student movement that toppled the AL government on August 5.

Much-talked-about names like Monirul Islam, additional IGP at Special Branch; Habibur Rahman, DMP commissioner; Atiqul Islam, additional IGP of police headquarters; Mohammad Ali Miah, CID chief; and Krishna Pada Roy, additional IGP of the Police Headquarters, were among those forced to retire.

Some of them have murder cases filed against them.

Police and home ministry sources said the changes were made as a part of measures to revamp the force that has been "politically used" for a long time.

"We have transferred the officials out of Dhaka as a part of measures to revamp the force," Md Mainul Hasan, commissioner of the DMP, told The Daily Star yesterday.

He said, "Capable, professional, and deprived officers are being selected for filling the vacant posts."

Muhammad Nurul Huda, a former inspector general of police, termed the moves "administrative measures or actions warranted by the present situation".

He told The Daily Star, "The officials, who have been given charge in new posts, should strictly follow the law so that the image [of the force] is restored."

REINSTATEMENTS, RETIREMENTS

With three circulars, the government yesterday sent three top police officials, including an additional inspector general of police (IGP), into forced retirement from today.

The officials are Krishna Pada Roy, additional IGP of police headquarters; Mozammel Haque, Khulna Metropolitan Police commissioner; and Sarder Rakibul Islam, additional commissioner.

The circular invoked section 45 of the Public Service Act, 2018.

The five reinstated police officials, who were forced to retire between 2020 and 2023, are Deputy Inspector General of police Abdullah Al Mamun, and SPs Nazmul Karim Khan, Ali Hossain Khan, Delwar Hossain Mia, and Zillur Rahman.

Five circulars were issued in this regard yesterday.

They would be considered on duty from the day of their forced retirement, and they would be entitled to arrears, promotions, and other benefits as per rules, read the circulars.

The home ministry during the AL rule had cited "public interest" as reason for them being forced to retire.

THE NEW TO BE WATCHED

Sources said many of the newly posted DMP officials do not have experience in working in the capital.

Talking to this newspaper, a source, requesting anonymity, said, "It would be hard for the newly appointed officers to perform their duties if they have no experience in dealing with crime in the capital … ."

DMP Commissioner Mainul said, "We will keep the newly transferred officials under the scanner and follow their work. If they fail to perform and maintain the professional standard, then they would be sent back.

"We want to ensure the best service to people … ."

Earlier, the authorities transferred all additional commissioners and deputy commissioners of eight crime divisions and eight detective branches of the DMP.

The officials, who were posted outside Dhaka, are now being given the charges of these divisions and DB branches.

NEW SPs, DIGs

The home ministry in another circular transferred the SPs of 24 districts.

New officials were also appointed to these districts.

The districts that got new SPs are Rangpur, Gazipur, Cumilla, Dhaka, Sirajganj, Chattogram, Manikganj, Mymensingh, Gaibandha, Habiganj, Rajshahi, Munshiganj, Sylhet, Narayanganj, Natore, Pabna, Patuakhali, Bagerhat, Kishoreganj, Jhenaidah, Magura, Tangail, Jashore, and Narsingdi.

In another circular, the home ministry yesterday transferred two additional inspectors general of police and six DIGs.

Additional IGP (supernumerary) AKM Hafiz Akter and KH Mahid Uddin were transferred to the Industrial Police and Tourist Police.

DIG Munibur Rahman of DMP was sent to the Armed Police Battalion headquarters while DIG Faruk Ahmed to the DMP.

DIGs (supernumerary) Israil Howlader, Khondoker Nazmul Hasan, Masud Karim, and Hasan Md Shawkat Ali were posted to the DMP.​

 

[Saif]

Restoring full police capacity is vital for public security

Police must be able to carry out law and order duties

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Restoring full police capacity is vital for public security
Police must be able to carry out law and order duties

VISUAL: STAR

It is disheartening that the police still remain in a state of disarray despite attempts in recent weeks to overhaul the force and imbue it with a new sense of direction. According to a report by this daily, the violent fallout of the regime change on August 5 continues to cast a shadow over the force even now, with logistical challenges as well as low morale due to the fear of withdrawal, transfer, forced retirement, lawsuits and/or arrest still stifling their capacity. This cannot be allowed to persist, as the role of the police is critical in maintaining law and order, ensuring public security, and preventing chaos.

Presently, police services remain largely limited to registering complaints and cases. Despite all police stations resuming their operations several weeks ago, there has been little field presence of officers, especially after dark and without army escorts. Meanwhile, the national helpline 999 continues to struggle to provide services because of the lack of police personnel and logistical support. For a time, all the 999 calls asking for police help were referred to the armed forces. Even though the home adviser has urged the superintendents of police to work sincerely with the force and logistics they have in their respective districts, a number of issues have combined to make progress difficult.

Key among them is the lack of morale. Reportedly, the fear of being sued or arrested or, worse, facing public wrath for police actions during the bloody mass uprising still haunts police members. To this day, over 700-800 officers remain absent without leave. Add to that the fear of being withdrawn or transferred, with major reshuffles being announced every now and then. There is no easy solution for this. It is natural for police, after having served as enforcers of an authoritarian regime for over a decade, to find themselves caught between the need to redeem their credibility and the lingering fear of consequences. Ensuring accountability and creating an enabling environment for police are both important. The authorities must find a way to achieve these objectives with tact, and with people's expectations in mind.

The issue of diminished operational capability is another major barrier, one that should be handled with relative ease, however. Given the overarching need of public safety, the authorities must urgently expedite their efforts to reinforce and restructure the police force, make necessary resources available, and repair damaged infrastructure. Soon after the mass uprising, over 450 out of 664 police stations were attacked by mobs, with some set on fire. Around 300 vehicles were also destroyed. Large quantities of firearms and ammunition were looted as well, leaving a security concern for the future. Restoring full police capability means addressing all such logistical issues as well as staff shortages created afterwards, through new recruitments if necessary.

We must say that we expect a better performance from the interim government in terms of fully operationalising the police force. Police must be able to secure the streets, protect citizens, and prevent crimes. The responsibility to ensure that they are able to do so lies on the government. Reforms cannot happen overnight, so striking a balance between reform and general functionality may be considered in the short term, keeping long-term reforms for the future.​

 

[Saif]

Committee soon for police reform

A committee will soon be formed for police reform, said Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury yesterday.

www.thedailystar.net

Committee soon for police reform
Says home adviser

Photo: Jahangir Alam Chowdhury

A committee will soon be formed for police reform, said Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury yesterday.

He made this announcement during a meeting at his office, where an eight-member delegation led by Stefan Liller, resident representative of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Bangladesh, met him.

Regarding police reform, the adviser mentioned that it is still in the preliminary stage.

"No committee has been formed yet, but a primary committee for police reform will be established soon. This committee will determine the process, how the reform will be conducted, and who will be included," he said.

The adviser further said the process will move forward based on the recommendations and opinions of the primary committee, and future actions will be determined accordingly.

Stefan Liller said police reform should be conducted in such a way that the public can gain trust and confidence in the force, avoiding any criticism.

Earlier at an event, the home adviser said most of the problems in jails could be solved by stopping bribery and corruption.

He made the remark while speaking as the chief guest at a views exchange meeting with prison officials at the Directorate of Prisons in Dhaka's Bakshibazar.

Calling for the transformation of jails into correctional centres, Jahangir said, "The quality of food for prison guards and prisoners should be improved. They need to improve their skills through training."

He also gave necessary directives to the authorities concerned to ensure discipline and welfare of jail employees.

Addressing prison officials, the adviser said, "Your main responsibility is to ensure the security of the prison. Restore your respect without taking bribes, because bribery damages the reputation of the individual as well as the organisation."

During the meeting, prison officials and employees presented various demands to the adviser.​

 

[Saif]

Rab can't be used for political purpose: home adviser

Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury yesterday said Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) cannot be used for political purposes

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Rab can't be used for political purpose: home adviser

Photo: PID

Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury yesterday said Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) cannot be used for political purposes.

The adviser said this in a discussion held at Rab headquarters in the city's Uttara with participation of the senior Rab officials, a press release said.

The adviser emphasised that Rab was initially established with a commitment that it would not be used for political ends, a principle that has not been adhered to in recent years.

He noted that there is a strong public perception that the misuse of Rab for political objectives has led to its involvement in illegal activities, including enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.

Jahangir highlighted that Rab was once a disciplined and well-regarded force, gaining public trust and respect through the deployment of top officers from the police and armed forces. However, he pointed out that political influence in the recruitment and posting within RAB has eroded the integrity of the force.

He urged that Rab's lost glory and honour could be restored through love, proper conduct, and performance, stressing the importance of operating within the law.

He instructed that illegal orders from higher authorities must not be followed, unauthorised detentions must cease, and the force must steer clear of extrajudicial actions such as crossfire, enforced disappearances, and killings.

The meeting was attended by Rab Director General AKM Shahidur Rahman and other officials of the force, who briefed the adviser on various activities of Rab.​

 

[Saif]

'কাজে না ফেরা পুলিশ সদস্যদের আর সুযোগ দেওয়া হবে না'

 

[Saif]

The morale issues of Bangladesh Police

There is no denying that for a long time, the police have been used as a tool of repression in the subcontinent

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The morale issues of Bangladesh Police

The police leadership needs to explore how it can financially and socially help the aggrieved families that have been victims of police actions. FILE PHOTO: STAR

It would definitely be an understatement to say that as of now, the morale of Bangladesh police is less than desirable. The reality is that our police have been badly shaken by the events leading to the fall of a despised authoritarian government. For a significant length of time in the recent past, there was hardly any police presence in public life.

There is no denying that for a long time, the police have been used as a tool of repression in the subcontinent and politicians have frequently misused this vital organ of the state for personal gain and partisan advantages. In the process, the police hierarchy have been willing collaborators of their political masters. However, what is markedly different this time is that many police officers of different ranks have acted as party goons devoid of any sense of legal propriety of their actions. They are complicit in using excessive force while countering public protests, with some policemen stooping low enough to be branded by some as public enemies.

It has to be admitted that the single-minded pursuit of money has impoverished the minds and desiccated the hearts of many politicians, with whom an unholy nexus has been built by reckless and corrupt police officials. Quite often, interference with the statutory duties of police contrary to the provisions of law has not been condemned. This was the case when it impeded the performance of duties in the maintenance of public order and investigation of cases.

Coercive powers—such as the recourse to fire while dispersing assemblies—have been given under the law to certain officers, and they alone as agents of law, have to act in accordance with their own assessment of the situation and as per their conscience. In our situation, many senior officers have not used their statutory authority to advise, guide, and direct the public order operations. Instead, they resorted to indiscriminate and excessive use of force. Consequently, the police have been demonised in public, perhaps with some justification. This, however, is not desirable as we cannot dispense with the services of the police in public interest.

The police in Bangladesh, coupled with the required determination to perform its legally mandated functions, need to regain its confidence. Winning the trust and support of the public would be the first step. However, this will be difficult as many delinquent officers must face actions for criminal actions and have to be brought under the law by their own colleagues.

The best course of action in this case would be the police, as the country's principal law enforcement agency, themselves set an example of scrupulously abiding by the law. The practical display of this course would be to investigate all cases of murder and other offenses arising out of the recent incidents of July and August, and bringing to book the offending police functionaries. There must not be anyprotective investigation or any quarter given to defaulting officials.

The police leadership needs to explore how it can financially and socially help the aggrieved families that have been victims of police actions. There are funds that can be judiciously used to ameliorate the distress of the suffering families, particularly those that require medical assistance. Bearing the educational expenses of families that have lost its principal earner could also be helpful. The remorse and compassion has to be visible to heal the wounds.

In addition, the 999 service provided by police has to be restored to its full capacity with adequate supportive actions on ground. The "open house" project where senior officers of respective units used to hear the grievances of the public on a monthly periodical basis has to be resumed. This would hopefully allay fears, remove confusion, and create a climate of trust. This would be a salutary public relation exercise vital for enlisting public support for law and order maintenance.

Improvement in traffic management in the country, in particular Dhaka city, would significantly contribute to morale boosting. Dhaka motorists should see traffic police performing their tasks with efficiency and authority. Coordination remains a key element in any traffic management. It is suggested that actual behavior patterns of the motorists could be seen and verified only on the roads. Furthermore, wrong parking in Dhaka is a major cause of traffic snarl-ups. If necessary, we have to press several cranes into action in order to tow away the offending vehicles to the nearest police station. Everybody, including VIPs, should face consequences for wrong parking.

In the long-term, measures like sanitisation of recruitment, adequate training and depoliticisation of law enforcement must not escape our attention. The police in Bangladesh needs to be rescued from a dehumanisation process that has engulfed them.

Muhammad Nurul Huda is former IGP of Bangladesh Police.​

 

[Saif]

ICT case filed against six RAB officers

A case was filed with the International Crimes Tribunal against six Rapid Action Battalion officers on charge of crimes against humanity for reported abduction, enforced disappearance and...

www.newagebd.net

ICT case filed against six RAB officers
Staff Correspondent 23 September, 2024, 00:29

A case was filed with the International Crimes Tribunal against six Rapid Action Battalion officers on charge of crimes against humanity for reported abduction, enforced disappearance and torture of a physician in 2021.

In the first-ever case filed with the tribunal for reported abdcutionand enforced disappearance, the complainant, physician Israt Rafique Eshita, alleged that the officers abducted her from her house at Kafrul in the capital on July 28, 2021.

The accused officers include the then Squadron Leader Ali Ashraf, IT expert Rakib, and additional superintendent of police Md Akhteruzzaman.

According to Israt’s complaint, she became a victim of enforced disappearance after the battalion officers abducted her and held her in an undisclosed location, where she was subjected to torture. She was produced before the media by the battalion five days later, on August 1, 2021.

On the following day, August 2, 2021, Israt was publicly presented as a ‘fake physician’ and implicated in three narcotics-related cases, which she claimed, were fabricated.

Her case took to 30 the number of cases filed with the tribunal, mostly targeting deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina, since her resignation and fleeing to India on August 5.

In a related development, the International Crimes Tribunal-1 has received two more complaints against Sheikh Hasina, involving allegations of crimes against humanity in connection with the deaths of Dr Sajib Sarkar and Sheikh Ashabul Yamin, both of whom were killed in police firing during the student-people uprising on July 18.

Halim Sarkar, the father of Dr Sajib Sarkar, filed a complaint accusing 71 individuals, including police members, of killing his son.

Sajib, who completed his MBBS from Taherunnesa Medical College in 2020, was shot dead by police at Azampur of Uttara in the capital during peaceful protests.

‘They killed my innocent son, and I want justice,’ Halim Sarkar told the media after filing the case.

In another complaint, Yamin’s uncle, Md Abdullah Al Mun Kadir, accused 78 individuals, including Sheikh Hasina, Awami League leaders Obaidul Quader, Zunaid Ahmed Palak, and Mohammad A Arafat, of genocide and crimes against humanity under the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act of 1973.

Yamin was reportedly detained by police during the student-people uprising in Savar and shot at point-blank range. Disturbing footage of the police dragging Yamin’s body to an armoured vehicle, dropping it on the street, and brutally discarding it on a road divider went viral and shocked the nation. Yamin was rushed to Savar Enam Medical College Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead.

The allegations against the accused are being pursued under sections 3(2), 4(1), and 4(2) of the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act, as calls for justice intensify following the tragic events of July 18.​

 

[Saif]

'The police cannot run in this way'

Earlier, it was commonly said, "The police and local trains seldom arrive on time." However, it seems now the police don’t even arrive at all, not even on rare occasions. Many places are devoid of police presence. Even on busy roads, the police are nowhere to be seen. Traffic management seems...

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'The police cannot run in this way'
Sarfuddin Ahmed
Published: 24 Sep 2024, 12: 49

Earlier, it was commonly said, "The police and local trains seldom arrive on time." However, it seems now the police don’t even arrive at all, not even on rare occasions.

Many places are devoid of police presence. Even on busy roads, the police are nowhere to be seen. Traffic management seems to be running on an "in the name of God, we proceed" system.

Recently a man selling vegetables from a mobile stall said, "Someone stole the battery from my van. That person is lucky he wasn’t caught. If I had caught him, I would have beaten him to death because there’s no police and no case would have been filed."

This suggests that people now believe that in many areas of the country, there is practically no police presence.

There are no police patrols. Ever since the shooting during student protests, the public no longer respects the police as they used to. They are no longer willing to listen to the police. Instead of following the law, people now want to do whatever they please.

The ‘open secret’ across the country today is that the police chain of command is no longer functioning. The entire command structure has collapsed. If a senior officer instructs a subordinate to go right, there’s no guarantee they will comply.

For a long time, this was perceived merely as public perception. However, last Sunday, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Sarwar Jahan of the Ramna Division of Dhaka Metropolitan Police was overheard telling a senior officer on his mobile, "Sir, this force cannot be run like this. No one is following orders. The police cannot function like this." It left no doubt in anyone’s mind that the chain of command of police has broken down.

According to a report in Prothom Alo, Sarwar Jahan had ordered his subordinates to remove auditors protesting in front of the Audit Building at Kakrail, who were blocking the road. However, like Nawab Siraj-ud- Daula’s army standing before Robert Clive’s forces, Sarwar’s team of officers stood motionless.

The report states that the auditors were blocking the road, and despite repeated requests over a loudspeaker to clear the area, they refused. Sarwar then gave them a five-minute ultimatum. When they didn’t move, he instructed his officers to advance. However, apart from a handful of officers, no one else moved.

Even after repeated urgings from DC Sarwar, some constables and sub-inspectors openly told him, "Sir, we cannot go into action."

Sarwar asked, "Won’t you listen to me?" To which one officer replied, "We can’t, sir."

At that moment, many officers were overheard saying to each other that no matter what, they would not move forward. One sub-inspector was heard telling the constables, "No matter what the sir says, just stay quiet."

Frustrated, DC Sarwar then called a superior officer and said, "Sir, no one is listening. Despite my repeated orders, no one is moving forward."

It’s not unusual for individual officers to show allegiance to a political party. However, if a large number of officers openly defy orders and say, "Sir, I won’t follow your command," then this becomes a serious issue
This is not a trivial incident. It is, in fact, quite alarming. The police are a disciplined force, and the chain of command is their primary strength. There is no room for anyone to act outside the command structure.

When a constable dares to tell a deputy commissioner of police, "I won’t follow your orders," it indicates that the chain of command within the force has broken down. There is serious disorder within the force.

Since the final days of the Hasina government, the relationship between the police and the public had become, in some cases, like that of a mongoose and a snake.

Thousands of people were injured or killed in police shootings at that time. Many police officers were also injured or killed by protesters. The antagonistic relationship that developed between the police and the public has not yet normalized.

The reality is that the police are still struggling to present themselves in a straightforward manner to the public. They feel that the public no longer respects them. This feeling can become a psychological barrier for them when attempting to break up protests.

However, a senior police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Prothom Alo that "a large number of officers in Dhaka were appointed during Sheikh Hasina’s government, and they no longer want to listen to orders."

Former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Muhammad Nurul Huda has also stated that the close relationship between police officers and political parties is responsible for the current state of the force.

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, between 2009 and 2023, a total of 119,919 constables, sub-inspectors, and sergeants were recruited. Analysts believe that over the decade and a half of the Awami League government, the police were used as a tool to maintain power.

It’s not unusual for individual officers to show allegiance to a political party. However, if a large number of officers openly defy orders and say, "Sir, I won’t follow your command," then this becomes a serious issue.

If this situation is not quickly addressed, the disciplined police force could transform into a disorderly one.

* Sarfuddin Ahmed is Assistant Editor, Prothom Alo​

 

[Saif]

Police in disarray, need massive reforms

Police have reached such a fragile structure that it cannot play any effective role even after one and a half months of the fall of Sheikh Hasina

en.prothomalo.com

Police in disarray, need massive reforms
Mahmudul Hasan
Dhaka
Updated: 30 Sep 2024, 15: 15

Around 120,000 were recruited in Bangladesh Police in 15 years of Awami League. The allocation for police increased by 433 per cent in this period. Yet, there was no effective initiative to make the police a professional force. Rather, police were used to suppress the political opponents of the ruling party in the last one and a half decades.

The organisational structure of police has collapsed due to Awami League’s excessive dependence on it. Police have reached such a fragile structure that it cannot play any effective role even after one and a half months of the fall of Sheikh Hasina in a student-mass uprising. Despite change in every top post including Inspector General (IGP), police have not been able to emerge from the torpor. Now a massive reform in the policing system has been demanded. Recommendation has come to form the Police Complaints Commission to investigate crimes committed by members of the force, alongside the Police Commission.

Some recommendations came while speaking with stakeholders such as current and former police officials, experts and relevant organisations. They mainly came up with two types of recommendations. Firstly, the police need a massive overhaul in the system of transfer, promotion, recruitment, operation and other facilities. Secondly, a strong organizational structure is needed to make police service oriented and ensure its accountability in all aspects such as cases and investigations, arrest and conducting raids. To this end, some laws and regulations regarding police need to be updated.

Sources said manpower shortage, budget shortage and infrastructural limitations were once presented as the main reasons for police force’s inability to be a professional one. But this notion has changed in the last 15 years. In this period, a total of 83,070 posts were created in the police. A total of 178 posts were created in high-ups for BCS cadre officers. Majority of 120,000 were recruited on political and partisan considerations.

According to the public security division, the manpower of the police force was around 213,000 last November.

Allocation for police in 2023-24 fiscal years increased by Tk 177.65 billion from Tk 33.31 billion in 2009-10 fiscal years. A significant number of infrastructures were built during this period but a majority of these were unplanned. Allegations of corruption were also there.

Stakeholders say that increase in manpower, facilities and infrastructures failed to make police pro-people as appeasing the force got priority over welfare of the public. A majority of the force played a veritable role as party activists to bring Awami League to power in the last three general elections. Awami League relied more on police and local administration than on party leaders to ensure their win in elections.

Transparency International Bangladesh’s (TIB) executive director Iftekharuzzaman stressed on creating a sustainable structure of accountability to bring police out of present predicaments. He recommended forming a police complaint commission alongside an independent police commission like in the United Kingdom and different other countries. The Police Commission will work independently on issues such as recruitment-transfer and promotion while the Complaint Commission will ensure accountability on these activities.

Police headquarters have already formed eight committees for reform and fact-finding. Police headquarters’ spokesperson Inamul Haque said the committees will submit reports to IGP.

The chief adviser of the interim government has announced a police reform commission headed by former home secretary Safar Raz Hossain. He told Prothom Alo, "The commission might consist of 10-12 members including two representatives from police. We will hear from journalists, people from different professions and policemen. We will recommend transforming the police force in line with people’s expectations."

Concept of posting needs overhaul
Policemen are usually posted in 16 to 20 units or work stations. Insiders say out of these 16, some 3-4 are considered ‘good postings’. Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s (DMP) crime division, detective branch and some other posts, superintendent of district police and ranges’ DIG are among the posts that are considered the better posting. Some other posts of police headquarters, Special Branch of police and Criminal Investigation Department (CID) are also considered prized posts. In the last 15 years, some handful of officers were appointed in these ‘good posts’.

police were used to suppress the political opponents of the ruling party in the last one and a half decadesProthom Alo file photo

Police insiders say that posting in the places where chances of exercising power, rate of crime and businesses and industries are generally considered as more coveted. The main reason behind it is that the chance of illegal income is comparatively more in these areas. Not only cadre officers, but non cadre officers from constable to inspector crave for posting in such areas.

Police do not have any ‘fit list’ for posting in those important posts. As a result anyone can be posted anywhere at any time. Taking this chance, the politics inside the police force mainly starts over posting in these coveted areas. This politics is mainly to blame for the lack of professionalism in the police. Officers need to lobby powerful officials to get better postings. In some places, postings of police are made as per the will of influential politicians. Some officials also form a syndicate to control the whole process of transfer and promotion. They do so by establishing good rapport with influential people in the government. Sometimes illegal transactions of money become the most important factor for posting.

These are the reasons behind the existing disarray in the posting.

Option of formulation of specific guidelines is also discussed inside the police to bring order in posting. Prothom Alo talked with 13 police officers of different ranks between inspector and DIG. They suggest police need a ‘fit list’ for posting of superintendents akin to the administration cadre’s fit list for promotion to deputy commissioners. There should also be a ‘fit list’ for officer in charge posting. An officer would require specialised and specific experience to get such postings.

They also opined that it should be specified as to how long an officer can remain in OC and SP posts. Officers of all ranks would require working in all units, except for specialised units, to ensure a balance between units so that some postings are not deemed more lucrative. If that can be done, officers would be ready to work anywhere they are appointed.

Discipline required for promotion

Relevant people said there is almost no promotion in the upper level posts without the consideration of superiors, political consideration or financial dealings. That is why instead of becoming professional, the police members become interested in tasks that would draw the attention of political leaders. As a result, the police could not become a pro-people security agency.

That is why the relevant people recommended setting some basic yardsticks for promotions. They also stressed the importance of assessing the annual confidential report (ACR) properly.

To ensure the “chain of command”, the authority to issue ACR will have to be distributed among the inspectors, assistant police supers, additional police supers, and police supers and other upper level officers rather than keeping it confined to unicentric.

Police stations to be reformed, trainings enhanced

There are allegations of harassment at the police stations for a long time even for some general services. There are also allegations that the police members are unhelpful in all the instances of filing a case, general diary (GD), investigation, patrolling and conducting raids. In some cases they just harass the service seekers. That is why the police stations could not become the places where people could rely.

Apart from this, financial dealings at the police stations have turned into a custom. That is why the relevant people advised to reform all 639 police citations across the country.

Several former and serving officials of different levels made some suggestions in this regard. Those include - employing a separate team, to be led by a superior, at the district level to monitor the activities of the members of every police station. They will submit reports on inconsistencies everyday to the SP and range DIG. Besides, they will contact a certain number of service seekers everyday to find out whether there was any illegal transaction of money and recommend taking actions based on that against the accused police member.

The officials and experts also recommended changing the recruitment of constables and their promotion and training drastically.

They said half of the sub-inspectors, who work as investigation officers, are recruited directly while the other half comes from promotion of constables. But when the constables are recruited, they do not get sufficient training to work as investigation officers. As a result, when they get the responsibility without any mental preparation, they fail to play the expected role in investigations. That is why they should be prepared during the recruitment and before the promotion.

Naim Ahmed, former additional IGP, told Prothom Alo that the main work is now to restore the morale of officers by making police stations functional again. Then there should be some specific guidelines regarding transfer and promotion. Also, training of police should be updated.

Necessity of specialised recruitment

With time, the types of crime and strategy to tackle these crimes have seen a massive change. Police are facing fresh challenges especially in tackling cyber crime and extremism. Although police have formed specialised units such as Cyber Crime Unit, SWAT, Anti-Terrorism Unit (ATU) and Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC), no specialised recruitment of people with specific know-how were made in these units. Many posted with these specialised units get training home and abroad but they get transferred to other non-specialised units later on. As a result, the training they receive goes in vain.

Stakeholders suggest that recruitment can primarily be made in constable and sub inspector posts at first. Later the whole units can be run by specialised manpower by providing training to them. There can be some specific standards for posting in units which mainly carry out investigations. Some also recommended recruitment of specialised manpower in units such as Tourist Police, Rail Police, Industrial Police, River Police, Highway Police and training institutes.

Framework of accountability stressed

Most of the crimes committed by policemen are linked with bribes and illegal transactions. Other than these crimes, policemen are generally accused for misdemeanors, personal reasons and negligence in duty. But investigation is normally carried out in cases that come out in public. And it is the police who carry out the investigation. As a result, the policemen who commit crimes usually get less punishment or get acquitted.

Under this circumstance, the stakeholders recommended a strong framework to ensure accountability of police. They say the whole police force should be brought under accountability by forming an effective police commission. This commission will investigate all crimes and irregularities. Apart from visible crimes committed by its members, policemen will face accountability for every case and investigation. Besides, all members of police will have to submit wealth statements of their own and members of their families. Actions should be taken if any inconsistency is found between their wealth and income.

The issue of reforming police has been a long-discussed one. The initiatives taken by the caretaker government in 2007 were not implemented by the next political government. The stakeholders said the previous governments had either encouraged or forced the police to serve their own interests. That’s why these changes should be made by the interim government on an emergency basis. Work should be started by bringing into a process in case of the decisions which will take time to implement.

Former IGP of police Khoda Bakhsh Chowdhury told Prothom Alo that the police should be reformed in keeping with the times, and the process should be continued. However, to get the full benefit of this reform, the criminal justice system needs to be reformed. In that case, apart from the police, the judicial system and the prison management should also be revamped.​

 

[Saif]

Italy pledges support for police reforms, regular migration

Italy’s ambassador to Dhaka has pledged support to the interim government’s efforts to reform the police and said it would work together to promote formal migration to the country

www.thedailystar.net

Italy pledges support for police reforms, regular migration

Photo: PID

Italy's ambassador to Dhaka has pledged support to the interim government's efforts to reform the police and said it would work together to promote formal migration to the country.

The ambassador, Antonio Alessandro, made the comments when he paid a courtesy call on Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the latter's Tejgaon office in Dhaka today.

Safe, organised and regular migration to Italy, economic and trade cooperation, and police reforms dominated the talks during the meeting.

The meeting came a week after the chief adviser and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni held a one-on-one meeting at the UN Headquarters in New York.

During the UN meeting, Prof Yunus called for the large-scale formal migration from Bangladesh to Italy.

Meloni said both nations should work hard to cut irregular migration.

"We want to protect Bangladesh migrants. We have to work for better regular migration," Ambassador Alessandro said.

The Italian ambassador praised the reform efforts of the interim government. He offered Italian support for police reforms, including training for the security forces.

"Our police do it in several countries," he said.

The ambassador hoped that bilateral trade between the two nations would "rebound soon." Currently, the bilateral trade between the two nations is around $2.5 billion.

The Italian embassy would also hold a movie festival and a ballet soon, he said.​

 

[Saif]

Police reform: Freedom from political control is the goal

The setting up of a commission for police reforms is not the first such move in Bangladesh.

www.thedailystar.net

Police reform: Freedom from political control is the goal
Old draft ordinance may come in handy for police reforms commission

The setting up of a commission for police reforms is not the first such move in Bangladesh.

The last caretaker government had taken a similar step. It formed Bangladesh Police Act Drafting Committee, which came up with a draft ordinance in 2007.

The goals of the committee were to free police from political influence; make transfers, promotions, and appointments within the force transparent; and ensure that the force and its members are accountable.

That draft ordinance proposed an independent police commission and a complaints commission. It intended to change the colonial police laws of 1861, but it never saw the light of day because of strong opposition from the bureaucracy and vested quarters, said those involved in the process at that time.

Drawn up with assistance from Police Reforms Programme (PRP), funded by the UK and EU, the ordinance was forwarded to the home ministry in 2008 for promulgation, but it never happened.

One of two police officials, who were involved in drafting the ordinance and are still with the force, said the home ministry controls promotions, postings, and punishment of all officers above assistant superintendents according to the wishes of the party in power.

"But under the new law [proposed ordinance], the bureaucrats would not have any control over the police."

Citing the examples of India and Sri Lanka, they said both the South Asian neighbours have changed their British era police laws, since those were designed mainly to subjugate people and required hardly any accountability for police.

The officials suggested that the new police reforms commission, led by former home secretary Safar Raj Hossain, may draw upon the draft ordinance and the experience of Sri Lanka.

The two officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the Sri Lankan law was better than that of India or Pakistan.

They cited the example of the uprising in Sri Lanka and the ouster of president Gotabaya Rajapaksa, during which the police did not use lethal force on protesters. They did not face public wrath either. "That is because Sri Lanka's police is controlled by an independent commission," said one of the officers.

The 2007 draft had proposed a National Police Commission (NPC) and a Police Complaint Commission (PCC) to supervise policing and reduce partisan influence in the police department. The police commission would be headed by the home minister, it would have MPs from both sides of the aisle along with civil society representatives.

The complaints commission would be headed by a former judge of the appellate court along with senior retired bureaucrats and civil society representatives.

But once the Awami League took over in 2009, there was no attempt to reform the police. In fact, the AL government used the entire force as its tool for repression and to subdue opposition and dissent.

A section of police officials also worked as party activists for personal gains like securing lucrative postings and engaging in rampant corruption. In the process, they not only deprived the more competent officials, but were able to push them out to the fringes with their own groups of loyalists that had turned into an evil axis.

The axis showed its true colours during the July-August protests, when hundreds of people were shot dead by police. According to the latest estimates, at least 708 people were killed.

The law enforcers also suffered at the hands of the people who turned on them as the protests culminated in an uprising. The protesters killed 44 policemen, burnt down 224 police establishments and vandalised 236. Several police stations were razed to the ground.

Police reforms commission chief Safar Raj told The Daily Star on Sunday that his committee members had already been picked and would soon be given formal appointments.

He added the commission will seek opinions from all stakeholders, including representatives of the print and electronic media.

Yesterday, the names of the commission members were unveiled by a notification.

The commission's office is at the home ministry.

However, those involved in the draft ordinance cautioned that even being located within the home ministry made the new commission vulnerable to pressure from bureaucrats.

THE 2007 DRAFT ORDINANCE

The draft ordinance proposed a National Police Commission (NPC) to supervise and administer the force and a Police Complaint Commission (PCC) to hold it accountable. The overarching goal was essentially the same as that of the Safar Raj Commission, reduce partisan influence.

The 11-member NPC would be led by the home minister. Members would include four MPs (two each from the government and opposition), four civil society representatives, the home secretary and the police chief. This police commission was authorised to significantly contribute to the appointment of the police chief and investigate any allegations against the top cop. Furthermore, only this commission had the authority to fire or transfer the inspector general.

The NPC would also finalise three nominees for the post of inspector general and forward them to the government for a final selection. The ordinance proposed that the government would appoint senior police officials, like additional IGP, upon the advice of the police commission.

Besides, the police commission would have to periodically make recommendations ensure an efficient, effective, and accountable force.

Striving for stability within the force, the draft proposed that between the ranks of superintendent and inspector general, officials would remain at a post for at least two years.

The proposed ordinance criminalised any recommendations for appointments, transfers or promotions whether by a minister or an MP.

The five-member complaint commission was authorised to investigate any complaint against the police, abuse of power, violation of human rights, negligence and corruption.

The PCC, led by an Appellate Division judge or nationally reputed personality, would include a retired secretary or additional secretary, a retired IGP or additional IGP and two neutral civil society representatives.

The complaint commission would have had the authority to act voluntarily or on the basis of complaints. It was authorised to refer complaints of minor offences back to the police authorities and had the powers to investigate complaints it deemed serious. It could ask the chief justice to appoint a district judge for a judicial inquiry if it needed to.

The PCC was also given the responsibility to draw up recommendations for ridding the police force of corruption. This commission would closely supervise investigations related to all killing and rape. The draft ordinance had a provision for forming a summary court to swiftly punish police officials found guilty.​

 

[Saif]

Yes, Japanese vehicles are a bit more expensive compared to the Indian ones, but the fact of the matter is we can afford Japanese vehicles then why the Home Ministry took the decision to buy low quality Indian vehicles based on price.

Bangladesh police begin procuring Indian vehicles

The police in a rare move have begun procuring Indian Mahindra vehicles for the Dhaka Metropolitan Police with 10 pickup vans handed over to police stations in the first phase.

www.newagebd.net

Bangladesh police begin procuring Indian vehicles
Staff Correspondent 10 October, 2024, 21:54

Indian Mahindra vehicles are distributed to 10 Dhaka Metropolitan Police stations at a programme at Razarbagh police lines in the capital on Wednesday. | Focus Bangla photo

The police in a rare move have begun procuring Indian Mahindra vehicles for the Dhaka Metropolitan Police with 10 pickup vans handed over to police stations in the first phase.

The DMP would get 50 such vehicles from the Indian company and 10 of them were already handed over the police stations on Wednesday, said officials concerned.

Experts, however, questioned about the efficacy and longevity of Indian vehicles as it could not be compared with Japanese ones now being used for police duty.

Police officials, however, claimed that they took the move for procuring duty vehicles for its stations since the India-made vehicles were cheaper than those being used by the police presently.

According to DMP, a total of 186 of its vehicles were damaged and 97 of them were completely destroyed during the student-led mass uprising that toppled Sheikh Hasina’s autocratic government on August 5.

They also said that 22 out of 50 police stations were set on fire under the DMP jurisdiction.

DMP additional commissioner for logistics, finance and procurement Hasan Md Shawkat Ali told New Age that they had procured Indian Mahindra company vehicles for police stations due to cheap price as each vehicle costs about Tk 15.90 lakh.

‘We will procure 40 more same vehicles in the coming days,’ Shawkat added.

The decision of the procurement was taken by the interim government about one and a half months ago, he added.

Uttara Purba, Gulshan, Tejgaon, Kadamtali, Jatrabari, Kamrangirchar, Sabujbagh, Khilgaon, Motijheel and New Market police stations have received the vehicles.

An officer-in-charge of one of those police stations said that it was Mahindra police pick-up.

‘We usually do not use the vehicle,’ the OC said without detailing.

DMP procured vehicles with the own fund of commissioner and vehicles would be used for maintaining law and order along with containing crimes.

Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology mechanical engineering department head Md Afsar Ali said that Indian vehicles had poor longevity and you cannot compare it with Japanese ones.

‘We had seen that Maruti company vehicles were imported in previous. Those vehicles became dysfunctional within two years. I think that there will be no exception in this case as well,’ he added.

BUET professor Md Shamsul Haque and a transport expert told New Age that the experience of Indian vehicle use was not well considering its longevity and resale value compared with Japanese one’s.

‘Earlier, some people brought Indian taxi-cab in the local market. But, those vehicles became defunct in a short time. This is why India could not succeed in the global market,’ said Shamsul.

Former inspector general of police Nur Mohammad said that the police usually used Japanese vehicles for patrolling.

‘A huge logistics loss took place after the fall of the government. I think that they imported vehicles from India for immediate solution and low cost,’ the former IGP added.

According to the Police Headquarters officials, about 1,000 vehicles were damaged, many among them were completely destroyed across the country during the movement.

An additional superintendent of police in a district in Chattogram division told New Age that only a handful number of Mahendra company vehicles were used in his district for the force.​