Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) will not be involved in disappearances, extrajudicial killings, or any unlawful actions, assured RAB Director General AKM Shahidur Rahman on Monday.
Speaking at a meeting with Crime Reporters Association of Bangladesh (CRAB) at the RAB headquarters, he firmly denied allegations of illegal activities within the elite force.
"There is no such thing as 'Aina Ghar (mirror house)' in RAB, and there is no possibility of extrajudicial killings," said Rahman.
He stressed that RAB operates strictly within the law and will continue to do so. "No one will be detained in a secret location after being taken into custody. RAB will act in accordance with the law," he reiterated.
‘Did not open fire on students, protesters’: RAB
Shahidur Rahman also emphasized that disappearances and murders are serious criminal offenses and will not be tolerated within the force. "If any RAB member is found involved in such crimes, they will face strict consequences," he added.
The RAB chief also spoke about the security measures in place for the upcoming Durga Puja festival. "RAB is working in coordination with other law enforcement agencies to ensure the smooth celebration of Durga Puja," said Rahman. He further noted that militants released on bail are being closely monitored, and any attempts to create unrest or spread rumors during the festival will be swiftly dealt with.
When asked about the United Nations Fact-Finding Mission gathering information on alleged human rights abuses in Bangladesh, particularly regarding the anti-discrimination movement, Rahman confirmed that the RAB had fully cooperated with the UN. "The fact-finding team has already contacted and inspected the RAB. We have provided them with all requested information, and we will continue to do so as needed," he assured.
The meeting also featured remarks from CRAB leadership, including General Secretary Sirajul Islam, who highlighted various aspects of the organization’s activities, and President Kamruzzaman Khan, who expressed gratitude for the ongoing cooperation between CRAB and RAB.
RAB DG Shahidur Rahman acknowledged the valuable role journalists play in his work.
Other CRAB members in attendance included Organizing Secretary Shahidul Islam Razi, Office Secretary Kamal Hossain Talukder, and Executive Committee members Ali Azam and Sheikh Kalimullah, all of whom participated in the discussion.