Staff Correspondent:

Strict action will be taken if any army personnel found to be involved in the enforced disappearance cases, the Army Headquarters said on Thursday (July 3).

“Several army members, who were on deputation to various organisations, have been accused of involved in disappearance cases. The matter is under investigation,” said Md Shafiqul Islam, colonel staff of the Military Operations Directorate at Army Headquarters, during a press briefing at the Officers Mess in Dhaka Cantonment.

The official also addressed questions from journalists on various recent issues, including the law and order situation.

Replying to a query about the alleged involvement of army personnel in enforced disappearances, Colonel Shafiqul Islam said, “Even though army members are sent on deputation, they remain under the army’s control. There are allegations that some might have been involved in such incidents. If investigations confirm this, the army will take appropriate action.”

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 stated that 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.

Regarding the incidents of weapons looting from police stations after the Awami League government’s ouster last year, Colonel Shafiqul stateds that 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 stated that 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.”