Govt Declares Hiding Police Officers As 'Terrorists', Orders Immediate Arrests

In the aftermath of the July-August uprising, police officers who have gone into hiding will now be considered 'terrorists.' Lieutenant General Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, the interim government's home affairs advisor, announced that they will be arrested on sight.

This declaration was made during his two-day visit to Rajshahi on Saturday, October 19.

In the context of the popular uprising led by the anti-discrimination student movement, which resulted in the fall of the Awami League government, the interim government has repeatedly urged police officers who have not reported for duty to return to work. However, 187 members are still missing and in hiding.

The home affairs advisor stated that these 187 police members will be considered terrorists for not reporting for duty, and they will be arrested upon sight.

He acknowledged that it is true the police force cannot fully resume their duties, indicating that the rumors among the public are not unfounded. He mentioned that the situation has improved significantly since August 5.

In response to another question from journalists, Jahangir Alam mentioned that actions might also be taken against police officials who were recruited based on party considerations rather than merit during the Awami League era.

Regarding mechanization in agriculture and corruption in fertilizers, he stated that there has been significant corruption in the fertilizer sector, and inquiries are underway. Actions will be taken against those found guilty.

It is noted that departmental cases will be initiated against the 187 police officers and members who have not reported for duty after the student movement. Preparations for this are already underway.

Meanwhile, operations are ongoing to arrest police officers wanted in various cases, although it has been reported that many of them have fled the country.