Home Minister Outlines Security Boost Against KNF Threats

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, speaking after a law and order discussion today in Bandarban, issued a stern warning against those challenging the state's authority through recent bank heists. The Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF) has been identified as the group behind these actions, aimed at signaling their dissent.

During the event held at Bandarban Circuit House's conference room, the Home Minister outlined the gravity of KNF's actions, including bank robberies and arms looting in Ruma and Thanchi upazilas.

He emphasised the group's adversarial position against the state and highlighted the government's commitment to reinforcing security in the hill tracts. This involves boosting the presence of law enforcement, including police, Ansar, and the Rapid Action Battalion, and expanding the operational area of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has directed a coordinated drive in the region, which will be preceded by intensified efforts by local law enforcement to restore peace and security. "No armed extortionists will be tolerated in the hill tracts," the minister declared.

The Home Minister also recounted efforts to engage diplomatically with KNF, including peaceful negotiations led by the Peacekeeping Committee and Zilla Parishad Chairman Kyaw Shwe Hla. Despite reaching a preliminary agreement, KNF reverted to violent activities, prompting a high-level government decision to counter their actions decisively.

Kamal further assured of maintaining good relations with neighbouring India and Myanmar, with plans to extradite terrorists if needed, ensuring they face justice regardless of their location.

The meeting was attended by State Minister for Chattogram Hill Tracts Affairs Kujendra Lal Tripura, local lawmaker Bir Bahadur Ushwe Sing, Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, among others.

Prior to the meeting, Home Minister Kamal visited the sites of the recent attacks, including a Sonali Bank branch and a mosque in Ruma upazila._UNB