RAB downplays security concern despite nationwide alert

An official, however, says RAB members have been deployed considering ‘security risk’

Amid conflicting statements from the administration's top brass over reported militancy in Bangladesh, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) says it does not see “any danger” - at least for now.

In a press briefing in the force’s Media Centre in Dhaka on Tuesday, RAB-2 Commander Additional DIG Md Khalidul Haq Howlader said: “We do not see any such fear or threat at the moment.

“Despite whatever was there, we hope the criminals will not dare launch a [militant attack].”

He, however, said RAB members have been deployed considering “security risk”.

Authorities ordered heightened security nationwide after the Police Headquarters warned on Thursday of attacks by a banned “extremist organisation” on the parliament and other critical installations.

In an advisory, Bangladesh Police instructed all units to tighten vigilance and increase surveillance.

Although it did not name any specific extremist organisation, the advisory revealed the recent arrest of Ishtiaq Ahmed Sami, also known as Abu Bakr or Abu Mohammad, a member of the organisation.

Highlighting “a plan to attack important installations by supporters of a banned extremist group,” it said the arrestee was regularly contacting two dismissed soldiers.

Security has already been beefed up at all airports across the country.

The RAB-2 commander said they seriously consider any risk and any threat, taking measures accordingly.

“We’ve deployed patrol and intelligence teams to provide security to all important establishments, government offices and buildings or establishments related to public interest. Other law enforcement agencies are also deployed alongside us," said Khalidul.

Earlier in the day, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said he is not convinced there is any “militant activity” in the country.

He said, "I do not even recognise that word [militant]. There is no such activity in our country."

However, Zahed-Ur-Rahman, the prime minister's information and broadcasting advisor, attested to the presence of militants and pledged efforts to eliminate their activities.