Published : 25 Aug 2026, 03:30 AM
Updated : 08 Sep 2026, 09:35 AM
The government has cleared a draft law that would empower the Armed Police Battalion (APBn) members to investigate criminal offences and handle related proceedings.
The cabinet, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Secretariat on Monday, gave policy and final approval to the draft Armed Police Battalion Act 2026, subject to vetting by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division.
The proposed law will replace the 1979 Armed Police Battalion Ordinance and modernise it in Bangla, while preserving actions taken and measures adopted under the old ordinance.
The proposed law places the APBn under the control and supervision of an additional inspector general of police.
Its responsibilities will include maintaining public security, protecting VIPs and key government installations, and taking action against terrorism, drugs, human trafficking, rape and crimes against humanity. It will also assist other law-enforcing agencies.
The draft empowers APBn members to investigate criminal offences and conduct related activities, subject to the Code of Criminal Procedure and other applicable laws.
It also provides for special and summary courts for the APBn and lays down provisions for conducting trials.
The draft was previously published for public consultation.
