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NON-TRADITIONAL MILITARY THREATS TO SECURITY:
CHALLENGES FOR BANGLADESH
CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION
1. There is a general consensus in Bangladesh over what constitutes a major threat to its
national security. Security analysts suggest that internal threats are more significant than
external ones. Tremendous problems the country is facing today are mostly socio – political and
economic in character and they constitute real security concerns. Lower level socio- political
cohesion, feeble resource base, demographical pressure, periodical natural calamities, etc. are
the inherent weaknesses of Bangladesh. Coupled with these, social conflicts, armed violence,
alarming escalation of weapons and explosives, smuggling of drugs and nexus of politics and
violence are the challenges that have moved to the top of our security agenda.
2. In recent years Bangladesh is witnessing two alarming trends: on the one hand a large
number of illegal weapons are in circulation and on the other, there is a gradual increase in
militant activities in the society. Today, organised crime gangs possess a considerable amount of
weapons and explosives and have the capability to threaten individual, societal and state
security.
3. Elements of under ground left leaning political parties operating in southwestern districts
possess considerable number of illegal weapons. Although these under ground elements have
lost their appeal as a political alternative, presently they sustain themselves by resorting to
organised crimes and extortion. They are also engaged in inter-party rivalry and killing each
other indiscriminately making the entire area a valley of terror. Similarly, the militant Islamic
1
parties are also reportedly in possession of lethal weapons and are engaged in armed violence
and militant training in different areas of the country.
4. The insurgents of Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) were recipients of large quantity of
weapons from abroad. While some of these weapons were handed over to the government
during the Peace Accord of 1997, a large number of these have been kept aside in caches, some
of which have gone to different criminal gangs. The violence being currently witnessed in CHT
is the product of these weapons. Insurgent groups of North East (NE) states of India and
Southwestern tip of Myanmar (especially Rohingyas) are also active in the vicinity of our
border. Once under pressure, these insurgents often trespass into our territory and engage
themselves in armed violence and extortion for their subsistence.
5. There has been an increase in shooting and killing incidents along Bangladesh-India
border in recent years. Dispute over cultivation right in undemarcated stretches of the border,
extraction of stones from the disputed areas along mid stream river boundary, border crossing of
illegal migrants and rampant smuggling often induce shooting/ killing of poor people and border
skirmishes. The BARAIBARI incidence has given fuel to fire.
6. Bangladesh is presently confronted with tremendous rise in drug abuse and the
abundance of cross border drug supply. With the rise of narcotics related crime and offences, the
law and order situation has deteriorated significantly. The involvement of local criminal gangs
in international drug trafficking operations and spending of a portion of funds in procuring arms
and ammunition help in the increase of mafia type activities in the country. Again, the alleged
piracy in Bangladesh’s maritime territories has affected negatively not only the country’s image
internationally but also its largely sea-dependent trade. International Maritime Bureau (IMB)
puts Bangladesh as ‘one of the most dangerous points of the world’1 due to repeated and ill
motivated publicity of piracy related incidents over the last few years.
7. Individuals, groups, society and the nation as a whole are frequently afflicted directly or
indirectly by aforesaid ethnic, religious ideological conflicts and socio-economic violence. All 1 ‘Pirates rule the Bay’, The New Age, November 03, 2003.
2
these issues being dependent on arms have military implications, though not in traditional
senses. These are non-traditional security issues, yet over the years gained more prominence.
Keeping the same in consideration, it is pertinent to raise certain questions: What are the sources
of non-traditional military threats to our security? What are the reasons for rapid expansion of
violent crimes in the society and whether these have any link with the escalation of arms? What
are the impacts of such non-traditional military threats on individual, society and the nation as a
whole? Finally, what all measures that the government and the society can take to enhance the
nations capacity to deal with such non-traditional military threats?
8. Keeping in perspective the foregoing questions the purpose of this study would be to
analyse the current and potential security concern of Bangladesh emanating from non-traditional
military threats within the conceptual framework of non-traditional security. An attempt will be
made to identify the issues pertaining to non-traditional military threats, conditions/causes that
lead to the escalation of armed violence, their linkage with arms and drugs and the possible
nexus among the criminal gangs, police and politicians. The study will also look into the impact
of all these elements on individual, societal and national security and suggest some measures to
address such security challenges.
9. Aim. The aim of this study is to identify security challenges of Bangladesh
pertaining to non-traditional military threats and suggest some measures to address such
challenges.
10. Scope. While addressing the non- traditional military threats to our security I will
confine my studies on the security threats emanating from organised armed bodies only. Though
there are other socio-economic and political violence where some arms and explosives are used
-these will not be discussed in details. Because these are mostly law and order related which can
be curbed by efficient and impartial police actions. But the border skirmishes, armed violence
carried out by highly sophisticated organised criminal gangs, armed cadres of under ground left
leaning political parties, members of the extremist religious parties, drug cartels, cross-border
insurgents/ insurgents operating in CHT, and pirates operating in our coastal areas pose greater
non-military threats to security and can’t usually be handled by traditional police force. To
3
counter these threats, special force like Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), BDR, and Coast Guard
may require to be employed. In special circumstances joint operation may also be conducted
involving the regular forces.
11. Methodology . The method of research I intend to follow would be primarily
based on consultation of print media, observation and discussion. I would also take help from
related books, various media and collect information from concerned offices to address the
subject adequately. Efforts will be made to discuss with some informed personalities, i.e.
businessmen, police and intellectuals, who are directly or indirectly related to the study.
12. Chapter Plan. The rest of the study consists of five chapters. Chapter 2 addresses
the concept of non-traditional threats to security in Bangladesh perspective and reviews the
sources of insecurity emanating from non-traditional military threats. Chapter 3 contains the
impact of non-traditional military threats on individual, societal and national security. In chapter
4 steps so far taken by the government (govt) to counter the non-traditional military threats and
impacts of those steps are delineated. Chapter 5 contains suggested measures that can enhance
nation’s capacity to deal with non-traditional military threats to security. Chapter 6 contains the
concluding observation on the entire study and a few recommendations that may help all
concerned to cope with the challenges of non-traditional military threats and enhance her
national security.
***
4
CHAPTER 2 - CONCEPT OF NON-TRADITIONAL THREATS TO SECURITY IN
BANGLADESH PERSPECTIVE AND SOURCES OF INSECURITY EMANATING FROM
NON-TRADITIONAL MILITARY THREATS
CONCEPT OF NON-TRADITIONAL THREATS TO SECURITY
IN BANGLADESH PERSPECTIVE
13. The concept of ‘national security’ had purely military and defence connotation after
Second World War. It was intimately linked with the ‘traditional’ thinking of security concept
and seemed to be appropriate for the Cold War period. Since the end of Cold War the concept of
security has gradually been changed. In the post Cold War period we witness the emergence of
inevitable process of globalisation and multi-dimensional threats to security, which have very
little relevance to ‘traditional’ military power. Today, the non-military threats arising out of
cross border insurgency, border skirmishes, ethnic conflicts, proliferation of small arms, drug
trafficking, ideological differences, political instability, social degeneration, nexus among
criminals, police and politicians, environmental degradation, etc. impinge more upon the over
all security of a nation. This transformation of the concept of security basically denotes a broad
shift of concept from traditional ‘state and military’ centric to the ‘people’ centric security1.
Presently ‘security means protecting the people’s life from various kinds of threats’2. Basing on
this security connotation it is pertinent to identify the threats that we are currently exposed to
and likely threats that we might have to encounter in foreseeable future. Much of the threats to
our national security stem from perennial internal problems and even many of the external
problems virtually crop up because of our inability to address the internal ones. Today a nation
like ours can be said to have assured its own security when it is economically developed,
politically stable and socio-culturally cohesive. For us, establishment of internally secured
political order, mitigation of social deprivation, addressing the grievances of ethnic/minority
community, etc. are the essential preconditions for cohesion of the society and national stability.
1 Azim, Lieutenant Commander, Kazi Mesbahul, ‘Non- Military Threats to Security of Bangladesh’, Mirpur Papers, December 2001, p.3.2 Quoted in Khan, Muhammad Shahedul Anam, ‘Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty – first Century’ in National Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty- first Century, ed, Kabir. Mohammd Humayun, p.16.
5
However, this socio-economic approach to security cannot be taken to undermine the other
dimensions of it, particularly issues related to the protection of territorial integrity and national
sovereignty. We cannot forego the need for a credible deterrence and ‘ must be prepared to deter
the prospect of physical security threat whatever be the source4.
SOURCES OF INSECURITY EMANATING FROM NON-TRADITIONAL MILITARY THREATS:
CONCERN FOR BANGLADESH
General
14. Bangladesh as a small third world developing country faces wide range of non-
traditional military threats of serious nature to her security. The current and projected non-
traditional military threats are appended below:
THREATS FROM NON-TRADITIONAL MILITARY SOURCES
External Internal
Trans-border Insurgency Ethnic Issue
and Border Skirmishes
Arms Smuggling Socio-Economic Violence
Drug Trafficking Ideological Violence
International Terrorism Piracy
External Threats
15. Trans- border Insurgency and Border Skirmishes. The trans-border security
dimension of insurgency in CHT arises from the fact that NE states of India and Arakan state of
Myanmar are infested with chronic insurgency. This has the potentiality of spill over effects
across the state boundaries and in the process it may lead to a straining of inter- state relations
with serious security implications. The CHT insurgency could develop so much due to the fact
4 Ibid . , p. 18.
6
that it received full external support of big neighbour. Similarly, India and Myanmar often
accuse Bangladesh of harbouring insurgents of those countries. When the contiguous ethnic
groups draw material and moral support from each other the domestic insurgency gradually may
acquire a trans-border character and likely to deteriorate inter-state relationship. On the other
hand, due to illegal border crossing and unresolved border disputes, border skirmishes and
shooting incidents frequently take place along indo-Bangladesh border. It has been learnt from
Bangladesh Rifles authority that 88 Bangladeshis have been killed in border shoot out from July
2002 to June 2004.
16. Arms Smuggling. For quite sometime it had been alleged that Bangladesh is a
transit route for illegal weapons, whatever may be its destination. The massive seizure of
modern arms and ammunition at Chittagong Urea and Fertilizer Factory Limited (CUFFL) jetty
on night 1st and 2nd April 2004 have jolted us into realising that how vulnerable the country has
become to subversive activities of arms dealers. The list of captured arms and ammunitions is
shown at Appendix-I. The location of our territory adjacent to insurgency-laden
neighbourhoods makes for vulnerability as an arms conduit in the region. Our low alert and
surveillance status might have maid us into favourite transit route for arms trafficking. It may be
mentioned here that there had been arms and ammunition haul at Bogra in June 2003, at Uttara,
Dhaka in October 2003 and at Kuril, Dhaka in November 20035. In all, there were 22 arms
smuggling incidents in 2003 and the authority could not unearth the motive of any of such
incidents. The sooner the government get the answers “for whom, by whom and from whom” of
the seized weapons, the better it will be for our over all security6. ‘Easy access to these
weapons, criminalisation of the society, the socio-economic violence, nexus of guns and drugs,
truck between the criminals and politicians have all had their respective inputs in the situation
obtain today in Bangladesh’7.
5 Zamir, Muhammad, ‘Arms smuggling must be stopped’, The Daily Star, April 01, 2004.6 Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brig Gen (Retd), ‘Chittagong arms haul: some queries’, The Daily Star, April 05, 2004.7 Quoted in Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brigadier General ‘The Menace of Small Arms and Light Weapons: Challenges for Bangladesh’, paper prepared for the National Consultation on ‘Small Arms and South Asia: Challenges for Bangladesh’, Organised by BIISS and South Asia Partnership on February 12, 2001, p.6.
7
17. Drugs Trafficking. Geographically Bangladesh is located at the heart of the
drug-producing region: in the east the golden triangle, in the north the golden wedge and in the
west across India the golden crescent. Bangladesh has direct air, sea and road communications
with the major drug producing countries in the region. Its multiple communications with the
poppy growing countries made Bangladesh a major consumer and geographical crossroads for
illicit drugs from Myanmar, India, Pakistan and Nepal. As a result of this development the Paris
based Interpol organization in 1996 suggested that roughly 5% of world drug trafficking is
‘routed through Bangladesh’8. This has led a big number of our younger generation to become
drug addict and compelled them to engage in criminal activities. ‘Possession of illegal weapons
by drug traffickers is contributing to the spread of fear and violence making the overall social
condition vulnerable’9.
18. International Terrorism. International terrorism around the world is gradually
increasing despite concerted efforts against it. Since it is not confined to any geographical area,
we can’t expect to remain immune of it. Though there is no substantial evidence of international
terrorism in Bangladesh yet it is argued that there are some extremists who are engaged in
terrorist activities in Bangladesh. These extremists consist of persons from religious or leftist
groups. Besides, there are millions of unemployed youths who are currently engaged in criminal
activities and violence in the name of ideological struggle. There are also thousands of Madrasa
students who have practically very little employment opportunities. These people have the
potentials to become terrorists unless appropriate measures are taken to generate enough
employment opportunities for them. The recent incidents of bomb blasts in various places of the
country are a matter of great security concern for Bangladesh.
Internal Threats.
19. Ethnic Issue
8 Haq, M. Emdadul, Prof ‘International Drug Traffickers and Security Concerns in Bangladesh’, The Daily Star, December 06, 2003, p.1.9 Ibid. p.3.
8
a. Clashes between Indigenous and Migrant People. The CHT Peace Accord of
1997 has brought an end (at least theoretically) to the 23 years old insurgency. But the
dispute over Bangalee settlement continues to remain. Tribesmen displaced due to the
inundation of the Kaptai Lake were already in occupation of the lands, which appeared
to be ‘khash lands’ of the District Revenue Officer. Settlement of Bangalees in these
fringe lands further displaced the tribal people. The tribal people viewed the Bangalee
settlers as their opponents. Ever since, it was the Bangalee settlers who were the primary
victims of the insurgents (Shanti Bahini). They have come under repeated attack of
Shanti Bahini (SB) from the time of their settlement. For their survival they have also
been organised and gained some capability to retaliate. Thus, it can be said that the
armed violence in CHT is likely to continue till the time maximum of the weapons
possessed by the insurgents/non-tribal are recovered and disputes over land use are
settled.
b. Clashes between Insurgent Groups. After the signing of Peace Accord,
factions of three hill organisations which differed with Jono Shonghoti Shamity (JSS) on
the Peace Accord, e.g. Pahari Chatra Porishod (PCP), Pahari Gono Porishod (PGP) and
Hill Women Federation (HWF) formed a political party namely United Peoples
Democratic Party (UPDF) and started working against the Peace Accord. Thereby, tribal
leadership has been divided into two factions i.e. Pro-Peace Accord Group (JSS) and
Anti-Peace Accord Group (UPDF). Currently JSS and UPDF are carrying out killing and
kidnapping the members of each other. Non-tribal people are also involved/affected.
Statistics of killing and kidnapping incidents in CHT from January to June 2004 is given
at Appendix-II.
20. Socio- Economic Violence.
a. Violent Crimes conducted by Criminal Gangs. Killing, dacoity, mugging,
arson, etc. have been on the rise for quite sometime. The life and property of the
ordinary citizen have been subjected to a great threat. Especially the syndicated criminal
gangs have made a haven of their own by flexing their guns and muscles throughout the
9
country. The recent killing of a businessman along with his son and the driver followed
by cutting of their bodies into pieces has horrified the entire nation. The organised
criminal gangs having sophisticated armouries, a well-organised multi-layered security
perimeter and communication network, and alleged link with political godfathers are
carrying out uninterrupted atrocities throughout the country. The situation has further
been aggravated by the poor law enforcement by the concerned agency and in some
cases by their direct involvement in extortion and other activities10. Statistics of major
criminal activities in last five years is shown at Appendix-III (details of the criminal
incidents of 2003 enclosed).
b. Abduction for Ransom. The armed criminal gangs have not confined their
activities in urban areas only rather they have extended their operation throughout the
country. The port city of Chittagong has become a haven for abductors. More than 50
people reportedly have been abducted for ransom in last year. According to press reports
tormentors freed abducted persons after receiving ransom but some were also killed. The
fear of abduction has reached to such a level that every affluent person in Chittagong
city has now become prone to it. The alleged nexus between police and the criminal
gangs has increased the level of fear. People were shocked on being informed that ‘a
team of DSB led by an inspector allegedly abducted businessman Abul Showdagor and
his son at gun point in June last year’11.
21. Ideological Violence
a. Killing by Under Ground Left Leaning Extremist Parties. While the whole
country is witnessing proliferation of arms and lawlessness, the people of southwestern
districts are subjected to a special kind of insecurity. There, the underground left leaning
extremist parties such as various factions of Purba Banglar Communist Party (PBCP)
and Shorbohara Party are carrying out atrocities indiscriminately. Besides, there are
some followers of PBCP (Jonojudha), and PBCP (Lal Pataka), who have links with
Nakshalite movements in India and are operating in southwestern districts. List of Under 10 Rahman, S M Matiur, ‘Crushing Crime Network’, The Independent, March 09, 2004.11 Ibid.
10
Ground Parties operating in Bangladesh is furnished at Appendix-IV. It has been learnt
through different press that people of those areas are passing their days in panic due to
the ever-rising terrorist activities12. The report says that people have become hostage of
different outlawed parties and are forced to pay toll under gun threat. If any one denies
paying the fixed toll, his life is threatened. Besides, the outlawed parties are also
engaged in inter-party fighting due to which a number of armed cadre have lost their
lives in recent times. Almost everyday there are some reports of killing of armed cadres
in those areas. The armed cadres also killed police and prominent journalists.
b. Violence generated by Militant Religious Organisations. There has been
an allegation that some extremist religious organisations are working in some part of
Bangladesh. Notable among those are Hijbut Tawhid. There are other similar parties
namely Harkat Ul Jihad al Islam, Jamiatul Mujahedin, Jagrota Muslim Janata
Bangladesh, Muslim Rakkha Mujahedin Dikhya Porishod, etc. List of Extremist
Religious Organisations operating in Bangladesh is furnished at Appendix-V. It has
been alleged that the bombing incidents at Udichi function, Paltan meeting, Ramna
Botmul, Mymensing and Sylhet cinema hall, Mazar of Hazrat Shah Jalal (R), Hotel
premise at Sylhet, etc. may have some links with extremist religious parties. State of
major Bomb Blast incidents is shown at Appendix-VI. Currently almost everyday
unidentified criminals are sending bomb threats over telephone for creating a sense of
fear and insecurity. The grenade attack on a political gathering on 21st August 2004,
which killed approximately 20 and injured more than hundred, is the most devastating
incident.
22. Piracy.
a. Deep Sea Piracy. Chittagong, which handles 80% of Bangladesh’s export,
has been marked by IMB as world’s second most vulnerable port to piracy. The types of
piracy witnessed in Bangladesh is mainly seaway robbery and are usually conducted by
smaller groups who rob the crews and depart quickly or at times steal valuable cargos 12 Editorial, The Independent, April 04, 2004.
11
and removable equipment of the ships. The ships operating in Bay of Bengal have also
suffered from some serious lethal pirate attacks as a result of which the Bangladesh
Navy and Coast Guard conduct regular patrols around Chittagong port 13. It has also been
reported that the pirates have some links with arms smugglers and drug traffickers and
their combined actions pose a great threat to our national security.
b. Piracy along Coastline. Piracy along the coastline is a regular phenomenon
where the pirates loot the vessels carrying cargo. They also snatch away the cash and
valuables belonging to the crews. The fishing trawlers are also the lucrative targets of the
pirates. This is a direct result of the inadequacy of coastal police patrolling. Recently
angry locals have killed 28 people suspected of being pirates. Prior to that pirates have
allegedly killed 20 villagers and crews of smaller vessels plying along the coastline14.
Reasons for the Rise of Armed Violence
23. Spread of Small Arms. ‘The small arms are being increasingly used as the final
arbiter of unresolved issues between individuals, groups and political parties in Bangladesh
today’15. The availability and use of weapons were first witnessed during our war of liberation.
After the independence many decided to retain the weapons and ammunitions once call for
surrender of their weapons were made. That was the beginning of proliferation of small arms in
Bangladesh. Then, during the signing of CHT Peace Accord ‘a sizable proportion of the SB
members have not surrendered arms’16. Some of the weapons held by the insurgents had been
reportedly sold to the criminals. Moreover, ‘a string of large arms haul in the last few months
suggest that insurgent groups in South Asia are targeting Bangladesh as a transit point for gun
running not only because of its strategic location but also because CHT has 172 km porous
border with India and Myanmar’. A considerable portion of these arms and ammunition finds its
way into the local market as evident from the recent arms hauls by the security forces from
different places. It is learnt from various national dailies that 99,957 rounds of ammunitions and
13 Arrow i Ltd, http://www.arrowi.co.uk/Piracy.html.14 ‘Pirates Rule the Bay’: The New Age, November 03, 2003.15 Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brigadier General, op.cit. , p.5.16 Khan, Abdur Rab and Barai, Munim Kumar, ‘Defence-Development Dilemma: The Bangladesh Perspective’ in National Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty- first Century, ed, Kabir, Mohammd Humayun, p.48.
12
6 kgs of explosives have been recovered from Bogra from 10 June - 20 July 2003. Criminal
gangs rely entirely on the force of arms to exist. ‘There are between one and two hundred
thousands illegal arms in the country of which fifty thousands are in Dhaka city alone17.
24. Ineffectiveness of Law Enforcing Agencies. It is alleged that the armed violence
currently prevailing in the country is the product of ineffective police system. Every police
station maintains a list of criminals. But most of the known criminals maintain liaison with the
police of their own areas. Police usually are reluctant to take any action against the criminals for
different reasons. Telephone calls from political godfathers frequently silence the police. On the
other hand criminal gangs cannot continue their operation for long without giving the share of
extorted money to the police. The ineffectiveness of law enforcing agencies also owe much to
the lack of accountability, corruption down the chain of command, lack of modern arms and
equipment, and non- availability of police force for actual law enforcement duties. ‘Only 38%
of the total force are actually involved in duties like prevention, detection and investigation of
crimes, prosecution of criminals and maintenance of the law and order, which concerns the
common men. The rest (62%) are engaged in various other activities, such as protection of VIPs
and dignitaries, key point installations, escort and other miscellaneous functions’18.
25. Cross Border Linkage of Criminals. The criminal gangs of Bangladesh are
reported to have good relations with the criminal gangs of neighbouring countries. The porous
border provides an added advantage to the criminals to cross over the border after committing a
crime to avoid arrest. Police authorities in West Bengal asserted that the kingpins of criminal
gangs operating along Bangladesh border are based in Kolkata19. During ‘Joint Operation Clean
Heart’ many of the top terrorists crossed the border and took shelter in West Bengal. Kolkata
police arrested some of them but they were not handed over to Bangladesh authority on flimsy
ground. The privilege of having shelter across the border provides added advantage to the
criminals to evade arrest and prosecution.
17 Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brigadier General, op.cit., p.7.18 Husain, Neila, ‘Small Arms and Violence in Bangladesh’, National Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty – first Century, ed, Kabir, Mohammd Humayun, p.170. 19 Haq, M. Emdadul, Prof, ‘International Drug Trafficking and Security Concerns in Bangladesh’, The Daily Star, December 06, 2003, p.2.
13
26 Judicial System. Due to complicated and prolonged judicial system the criminals in
most of the cases can evade punishment. This gives a carefree attitude to the terrorists. A case
usually takes about ten to twenty years on average from date of filing to date of judgement. Due
to unlimited delay and uncertainty about disposal of cases, involved criminals remain on bail
and in turn lives of the victims become more vulnerable. It is reported that a total of ten million
cases are now pending in different courts of the country. A horrible state of affairs is prevailing
in our system of criminal administration involving the entire process of investigation,
prosecution and trial. The criminals are aware that they can get away with any crime through the
large holes in the net of judicial administration. Today, ‘ordinary citizens do not trust the legal
system, the police and the courts - to deliver fair and speedy justice’.
27. Nexus among Criminals, Police and Politicians. In Bangladesh, criminals are
increasingly getting the political patronage. ‘Politicians directly or indirectly support and
sponsor terrorism or engage themselves in criminal offence in order to come to power, remain in
power, to take revenge or simply to get rid of an adversary. Hence, the politician’s personal or
party interest demands links with the criminal underworld’20. The nexus between criminals and
politicians is mutually beneficial. The criminal is ensured of political cover for his crimes and
the politician’s power base is assured by the muscle power of the criminals. On the other hand
once the criminals are taken in police custody for any alleged crime, they immediately receive
instructions from the political masters for their release. Taking advantage of such situation the
corrupt police release the criminals reaping some financial benefits.
28. Extremist Movement. Many thinkers feel that the rise of extremist movement and
the violence generated by the extremists is due to a general change in peoples’ attitude towards
authority. It may also be called the only means available to a weaker group for fighting a
stronger opponent. There is a requirement to study the political, ideological and economic
factors - any of which may have provided the cause for the movement. Factors contributing to
armed violence generated by the leftist extremist groups in the south-western districts may be
attributed to the lack of dispensation of social justice, poverty, unemployment, inefficiency of
20 Husain, Neila, op.cit. , p.171.
14
the administration and law enforcing authority. However, it is generally accepted that the
economic and social factors are the root causes of all armed violence.
29. Inadequacy of Intelligence. To combat the criminal gangs and extremist cadres,
the need for a reliable and timely intelligence is critical. If the intelligence is weak, the law
enforcing agencies cannot act– they can only react. Penetration into the underworld environment
and countering their activities need real time and accurate intelligence. For this, what is most
important is better coordination amongst various intelligence agencies, closer and expanding
contacts with the local people where criminals or extremists meet and operate, background
information, exploitation of the captured activists/criminals through speedy interrogation, etc.
But unfortunately in our country these essential elements are very much missing. Resultantly,
intelligence obtained is wasteful, being duplicated or is belated and quite often unreliable. The
mass arrest prior to 30 April 2004 and raid conducted in DOHS in last week of July 2004 is the
manifestation of such unreliable and misled information. On the other hand, the repeated
incidents of throwing bombs to destabilize the country and attempt to depict Bangladesh as a
‘dysfunctional state’ may be the outcome of a deliberate propaganda campaign of hostile
intelligence agency. We need to remain watchful in this regard.
30. Cultural Degeneration. The kind of violence and obscenity currently shown in the
movies and electronic media is largely responsible for the degeneration of social values and
consequent increase in violent crimes in the society. ‘Boma Hamla’, ‘Khaisi Tore’, ‘Dhor’, etc.
are the names of some recent movies, which can give little idea about their contents.
***
15
CHAPTER 3 – IMPACTS OF NON-TRADITIONAL MILITARY THREATS ON
INDIVIDUAL, SOCIETAL AND NATIONAL SECURITY
31. Impact on Individual Security. ‘In Bangladesh, there is a general apprehension
that there is not enough of individual security. Such fear is obviously not unfounded. The recent
rise of crimes, terrorism, and violence is the principal cause for such anxiety’21. The feeling of
insecurity is further enhanced by the individual’s fear of not being adequately protected by the
concerned state organs. The recent incidents indicate that almost all categories of people are
victims of ‘organized’ crime. ‘While it is true that the prime targets are political opponents,
businessmen, industrialists, etc. today’s terrorists also target the common men, such as the poor
trader, the hawker, the passer-by and so on’22. The recent incident of an open entry of an armed
gang of dozen persons with sophisticated weapons in broad daylight and amongst thousands of
onlookers and killing of a law maker at Tongi is perhaps the perfect example of the ‘individual
insecurity’ currently prevailing in the society.
32. Impact on Societal Security. Bangladesh is a society where social inequalities and
cleavages are prominently visible. On the one hand there is abject poverty pervading the society,
and on the other there is acute inequity in the distribution of wealth in both urban and rural
areas. The vast segment of lower-middle and low-income working class, the unemployed, the
near or total landless peasants and destitute and disadvantaged in both rural and urban areas are
leading a sub-human life. This very socio-economic condition prepares the base for criminal
activities to flourish in a particular society. When majority of the people living in a particular
society feel the same kind of vulnerability and insecurity, one can assume that in that particular
environment there exists ‘societal insecurity’. The possession of weapons by the criminals,
coverage of crimes by the political masters and inaction on the part of the law enforcing
agencies compel the society to suffer from helplessness, defencelessness and unprotected ness.
21 Ibid., p.172.22 Ibid.
16
33. Impact on National security. The gradual rise of armed violence, extortion at gunpoint,
murder and kidnapping for ransom are posing as a great threat to country’s security. Nearly
every section of the society is experiencing a fear of violence and a sense of insecurity. Truck
drivers are killed and truck along with the cargo looted; minor girl and a BUET student have
been killed in cross fire; leading businessmen have been kidnapped for ransom; journalists have
been tortured and murdered - all these incidents together contribute towards poor law and order
situation and political instability. ‘Political instability, nexus of politics and violence,
proliferation of small arms, etc. are all recipes for disaster and, unless addressed, will impact on
our national security adversely’23. Possession of illegal weapons by the criminal gangs is
contributing to the spread of fear and violence, making the overall social conditions vulnerable.
On the other hand funnelling of drug money also can help trigger terrorism and organised crime
and eventually can destabilise the political system. Today, violence and politics has become
synonymous. ‘The campus violence, an extension of violent politics at the national level, has
seriously affected academic functioning: student armed cadres frequently turn the campuses into
battlegrounds’. In CHT, JSS and UPDF are kidnapping and killing each other through
indiscriminate use of weapons. Non-tribal are also increasingly getting involved in violence and
criminal activities due to easy access to arms. Shooting and killing of persons along
Bangladesh-India border develop tension very often. Last, but not the least is the impact of
piracy. The IMB designated Bangladesh second in world, which has affected negatively not
only the country’s image internationally but also its largely sea-dependent trade. However,
according to our Shipping Minister ‘such reports are nothing but a concerted propaganda by
certain international quarters to tarnish the image of Bangladesh and thus create a pretext to
increase freight charges’24. Again, for three years in a row, Transparency International has
ranked Bangladesh as the country perceived to be the worlds most corrupt. Side by side there is
a propaganda campaign being pursued by the interested quarter to depict Bangladesh as a
‘fundamentalist infested and dysfunctional country’. The deterioration of law and order situation
coupled with increased violence in the society, tensed border, the image crisis and the hostile
propaganda campaign are posing threat to our ‘national security’.
***
23 Khan, Muhammad Shahedul Anam, op.cit. , p.1824 ‘Pirates Rule the Bay’, The New Age, November 03, 2003.
17
CHAPTER 4 - STEPS TAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT TO COUNTER NON-
TRADITIONAL MILITARY THREATS AND IMPACTS
34. Restructuring of Police Force. It has been pointed out through various discussions
that the police force are ill supplied in terms of both manpower and equipment. It is said that the
criminals have more sophisticated weapons than that of the police. The recent recovery of
weapons in various places provides necessary proof to the said statement. All these prompted
for an immediate police reform. Accordingly the Govt of Bangladesh (GOB) has taken decision
to increase the police strength and allotted additional budget to procure vehicles and equipment.
Age old .303 riffle is being replaced. ‘The govt has recently decided to establish separate
investigation unit and law and order unit in Thanas of the country within their manpower and to
work independently under the supervision of OC of the respective Thanas’25. System of training
is gradually being improved.
35. Creation of Special Force. As mentioned earlier, the criminals are in possession of
highly sophisticated weapons and maintain a very effective communication network. They also
maintain multi-layered security parameter due to which they can evade arrest during police
operations. Effective use of mobile phones added to their operational capability and security. To
address these challenges GOB has recently formed special police force namely ‘RAB’. Seven
battalions are being formed and one battalion to be located at each Divisional Headquarters. By
now they are working in almost all over the country. Some members of armed forces have been
sent on deputation to form part of these battalions. ‘Their crucial difference from the armed
forces is that they apply their military training under civil laws and regulations. They do not
operate under battlefield conditions of engaging the enemy, but use their military training and
superior equipment to carry out normal police functions’26. With the full fledged functioning of
RAB it is expected that the number and extent of violent crimes would considerably decrease. It
may be mentioned that they have recently captured ‘top terror’ Picchi Hannan. Most of the top
terrors have reportedly left the country and those staying in the country are continuously on the
run due to RAB’s relentless pursuit.
25 Yussouf, M. M, ‘Administration of Judicial System in Bangladesh’, The Daily Star, January 05, 2003. 26 Editorial, The Bangladesh Observer, April 12, 2003.
18
36. Speedy Trial of Sensational Cases. To improve the deteriorating law and order
situation govt has promulgated an ordinance for speedy trial of six major criminal offences like
murder, rape, possession of illegal arms, narcotics, explosives and hoarding. In the preliminary
stage 6 tribunals have been set up in the divisional headquarters and 19 in other greater districts
have been/would be established gradually. ‘Since the establishment of special tribunal for
speedy trial of heinous crime, 58 criminals have been awarded death sentence while 69 others
have been awarded imprisonment for life term in 2002’27. Special tribunals have disposed of
some of the very sensational cases and helped to regain people’s confidence in establishment of
rule of law. However, due to the shortage of Judges the special tribunals have not been able to
dispose the cases as expected28. Capital punishment given by these courts to some of the
dangerous criminals i.e. Ershad Shikder has impacted favourably on overall law and order
situation.
37. Joint Operation against Under Ground Left Leaning Parties. The GOB has launched a
joint operation (Operation Spider Web) comprising members of police and para-military forces
since 20 July 2003 to improve the deteriorating law and order situation especially in
southwestern region of the country. In fact, the under ground left leaning parties are currently
engaged in indiscriminate killing and extortion activities in that area. Since the launching of the
operation many terrorists have been arrested and a good number of weapons recovered. But it is
very difficult to combat these terrorist groups as after committing crimes in one district they
quickly move to another district or simply cross over the border, where they have safe
sanctuary29. Besides, the alleged police/ political patronisation of the extremists is acting as a
great hindrance in combating the under ground terrorists. However, RAB is gradually being
deployed and situation is expected to improve.
38. Reform in Judicial System. To ensure quick dispensation of justice and enforcement
of rule of law ‘the govt enlarged number of magistrate courts, district courts and divisions of
High Court for speedy disposal of cases’30. In last year the Law Minister said in a seminar that
27 Shafique Rehman, Jai Jai Din, July 08, 2003.28 Discussion with District and Session Judge, Sylhet, March 01, 2004.29 Discussion with Islam, Shamsul, DIG, Special Branch of Police on July 21, 2004 and statements given by recently arrested top under ground cadres that was published in different dailies.30 Yussouf, op.cit.
19
‘the present govt is working relentlessly to establish an Independent Human Rights
Commission, Anti Corruption Commission and Ombudsman to ensure rule of law in the
country’. He also mentioned that ‘the work is in progress of comprehensive reform for judicial
capacity building, train up judges and lawyers and remove flaws from the judicial system’31. The
govt is also working for the separation of judiciary as per the directives of Supreme Court.
39. Weapon Collection Drive. From time to time the govt has taken up special
measures to curb the spread of illegal weapons like arms collection drive in various part of the
country. But compared to the circulation of weapons throughout the country the recovery rate
has been very insignificant. It is alleged that along with the influx of illegal weapons there are
huge number of licensed guns that are in circulation amongst the criminal gangs within the
country. The armed cadres of party in power received huge number of licensed weapons either
in their own name or fake name. During ‘Joint Operation Clean Heart’ govt ordered to deposit
all licensed weapons to the authority. Through this move circulation of a good number of
weapons could be stalled for the time being.
Impacts on Security Scenario.
40. The security scenario of the country has not yet been significantly changed.
Confrontational politics, politically linked violence, growing crime and corruption are holding
back the nations’ growth. In the Bangladesh Development Forum Meeting held from 8-10 May
2004, Mr. Proful Patel (Vice-President of World Bank’s South Asia Region and Head
Coordinator of the Donor Community) commenting on the killing of a law maker said,
“politicians can take care of some of the norms on which a healthy society relies - personal
security, transparency, fair legal protection, a level regulatory playing field. Bangladeshi’s will
do the rest”. Honourable Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, in her opening address explained
the govt’s position on the issues and said “ We have taken a number of measures to improve the
law and order situation. The parliament has recently enacted a law for creating RAB in order to
curb crime expeditiously. The battalion has gone into operation in Dhaka metropolitan city and
its positive impact on the overall law and order situation is already visible”32. Reorganisation of 31 Ibid. 32 ‘Donors concerned - - - graft’, The Daily Star, May 09, 2004.
20
police force, employment of RAB, ongoing judicial reform, establishment of the institutions of
good governance, dispensation of justice without any prejudice and effective control of flow of
weapons, etc. if are executed with true earnestness, the security scenario of the country is likely
to improve in near future.
***
CHAPTER 5 - SUGGESTED MEASURES THAT CAN ENHANCE NATION’S CAPACITY
TO DEAL WITH NON- TRADITIONAL MILITARY THREATS
21
41. Controlling the Influx of Weapons. As has been mentioned earlier, presently our
society has become weapon dependent. ‘There is weapon behind rent seeking, suppression of
political opponents, acquisition of government contracts, robbery and the like crimes’. Poor
governance has much to do with the ‘weaponisation’ of our society. Thus, political patronisation
of criminals must cease. Anyone in possession of illegal weapon and engaged in armed violence
should be taken into task irrespective of his party affiliation. Although the existing law in
respect of arms is adequate, its application remains subjective. Special courts that have been set
up should be provided with adequate number of judges to deal with arms related cases speedily.
Sale of legal weapons must also be monitored as it is alleged that gun dealers enter false sales in
their books to licensed gun owners, who are also involved in it. Stringent measures are to be
taken at the borders and other entry points for controlling the influx of arms. Building up of
database, coordination with neighbouring states and international organisation, sharing of
information, etc. is essential in this regard. Local manufacturers of illegal weapons to be
severely dealt with. From the human security perspective it is viewed that proliferation of small
arms is related to poverty, under-development and despair. Thus, we must go into the root cause
of this problem. Merely treating it in isolation without addressing the socio-economic-political
aspects, may not endure the test of time33.
42. Controlling Cross-border Insurgency. ‘Insurgents and infiltrators, whether local or
foreign, have been active carriers of small arms and light weapons’34. Recent recovery of huge
quantity of weapons in CHT from the insurgents suggests that there is a linkage between cross
border insurgents and consequently spread of illegal weapons. It is reported that a large number
of small arms are smuggled in from across the border daily from various insurgent groups of NE
India or Myanmar. On the other hand the huge quantity of arms recovered from the CUFFL jetty
were allegedly meant for a well organised and trained groups active beyond our border.
Whoever might be the user it is certain that there is a well-organised group in Bangladesh,
playing a part in a team of international illicit arms dealer. We must not also feel satisfied that
those items were not meant to be used in Bangladesh. In fact, these weapons are capable of
creating havoc anywhere. An exacerbation of the ongoing turmoil in our neighbourhood would
33 Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brigadier General, op.cit., p.7.34 Husain, Neila, op.cit., p.176.
22
have consequences that might be difficult for us to deal with in future35. The highest authority of
our big neighbour already expressed their concern in this regard. Thus, there is a need to
identify and apprehend the involved syndicate and also take appropriate measures so that in
future our territory is not used for arms trafficking. It is of vital strategic interest to Bangladesh
that she ensures insurgents of neighbouring countries do not get any shelter inside her territory.
43. Police Reform. It is said that with the existing organisational structure and
capability it is very difficult on the part of the police to address the prevailing scale of armed
violence. Thus, there is a need for an immediate increase of police force and to provide them
with modern weapons, communication facility and equipments to deal with the sophisticated
weapons and explosives available with organised criminal gangs. Recent bombing incidents
suggest that police should be provided with sophisticated surveillance devices to gather prior
information. Both police and RAB should give more emphasis on developing their intelligence
effort. They should be provided with appropriate and adequate number of vehicles to reach to
the target within shortest possible time. Most important is, RAB and Police should be allowed to
carry out their tasks without political interference. Their recruitment, posting and promotion
should be on the basis of merit and not the political allegiance.
44. Control of Drug Trafficking. ‘The Paris based Interpol organisation in 1996 suggested
that roughly 5 per cent of world drug trafficking is routed through Bangladesh’36. In recent years
the volume of cross-border drug trafficking has increased tremendously, creating a serious
concern for the law enforcement agencies. With the rise of narcotic-related crime and offences,
the law and order situation has deteriorated significantly. A significant number of killings are
linked to disputes over drug business. Apart from this, the illicit drug trade is also responsible
for social erosion, spreading of mafia culture, destabilization of civil society and political
system. A well-concerted effort needs to be given to curb the trafficking and use of drugs. It
should be remembered that there is a synergic link between the proliferation of weapons and
drugs. Trying to combat either in isolation would be futile. We ought to consider drug
trafficking as a threat to international security rather than dealing with it only in a traditional
context of national security. 35 Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brig Gen (Retd), ‘Chittagong arms haul: Some queries’, The Daily Star, April 05, 2004.36 Haq, Emdadul, op.cit., p.3.
23
45. Patrolling of Coastal Areas to Control Piracy. Bangladesh has 2725
kilometres coastline in the Bay of Bengal. It is very difficult on the part of the police to have an
effective watch on the coastline. Taking advantage of this situation piracy in Bangladesh’s
Maritime territories has surged rapidly, affecting its sea dependent trade. The authority in
Bangladesh maintains that ‘no such incidents of piracy have taken place in Bangladesh maritime
territories in the recent past’37. However, our Shipping Minister admitted that a few incidents of
theft have recently occurred, in which the ‘ thieves have stolen ropes of some ships by cutting
those with knives; still the govt has decided to provide the Coast Guard with two new ships to
strengthen policing. Moreover, the Navy have also been asked to be alert’. Whatever may be the
nature of incidents, if such incidents continue to take place, the freight charges of international
cargo ships might go up, as they would prefer to avoid troubled maritime territories. The recent
arms haul at Chittagong port depicts our weaknesses of the coastline security. The nexus of
pirates, gunrunners and drug traffickers cannot also be over ruled. Thus, more efforts to be
concentrated to have an effective watch on our coast line.
46. Addressing the CHT Issue in Right Perspective. Though overall situation in CHT is
under control of the security forces, yet the situation may deteriorate due to increased number of
incidents like killing, kidnapping, illegal arms dealing, drug cultivation/trafficking and other
miscreant activities. Due to the lack of job opportunity, both the tribal and non-tribal population
of the area are increasingly involving themselves in various illegal activities including armed
violence. The prime demand of JSS is complete implementation of Peace Accord. But it is
argued that some of the provisions of Peace Accord being contrary to the constitution need to be
reviewed. Besides, the JSS’s demand for complete withdrawal of security forces and removal of
Bangalee Settlers from CHT is an absurd proposition in the present context. Thus, the prime
issues of the Peace Accord like settlement of land dispute, status of Bangalee Settlers and
transfer of rest of the Subjects to Regional Council should be immediately addressed. Land
Commission should start functioning immediately. Border along CHT should be effectively
controlled to deny arms/drug trafficking and movement of cross-border insurgents. Police and
37 Julhas Ripon and Aminul, ‘Pirates Rule The Bay’, The New Age, November 03, 2003, p.1.
24
other law enforcing agencies should be made capable of handling the law and order situation in
remote areas of CHT by providing them with modern equipment and training38.
47. Rehabilitation of Insurgents, Members of Under Ground Political Parties and Extremist
Religious Parties. Due to the lack of job opportunity, surrendered insurgents and armed cadres
of under ground parties are compelled to engage themselves in various criminal activities. This
situation is more dangerous for the society because of their skill in weapon handling. Unless
efforts are taken to generate adequate employment, this segment of society is likely to be lured
by the under world elements to resort to criminal activities taking advantage of their
vulnerability39. The Govt should combine economic measures with other social welfare
measures to create a sense of social and economic justice among the insurgents and under
ground elements. Govt in cooperation with private sector and Non-Government Organisation
(NGO) can take up special initiatives to deal with the problem of unemployment. The syllabus
of Madrasha education should be reviewed to incorporate some technical and vocational
training to equip the students for meaningful employment on completion of education.
48. Curbing of Slum Development. It is alleged that the slums ‘have become the safe
den for the criminals and focal point for criminalities’. The slums are the attractive places for
the dishonest businessmen and criminal gangs for trading contraband items, drugs, weapons and
trafficking of women. Many suggest that by evicting the slums, criminal activities can
considerably be reduced. But eviction is not the solution. Because, most of the slum dwellers are
the internally migrated people who have either lost their homestead due to river erosion or have
lost everything due to flood, drought or persistent unemployment and no other places lo live and
earn their livelihood. Thus, while taking decision not to allow slum development in the heart of
the city or to relocate the existing slums, employment opportunities to be created in the vicinity
of new location and social awareness to be created so that the new locations do not become
‘criminal dens for storing illegal arms and drugs’.
38 Tawhid, Mohammad, Major, ‘Post- Conflict Situation in CHT and Prospect for Lasting Peace’ Mirpur Papers, Issue Number 9, December 2003.39 Husain, Neila, op.cit. , p.177.
25
49. Legal / Judicial Reforms. The govt should ensure that rule of law is established
without any prejudice and discrimination. Any criminal activity to be dealt without being
influenced by interested groups. ‘Whether the criminal belongs to the ruling or opposition party
should not be the concern of law enforcing agency, rather they should investigate whether the
defendant is guilty or not in the concerned crime40. The judiciary must ensure that the
disadvantaged and vulnerable section of the society i.e. the poor, women and marginalized
sections are not denied access to justice either because they are not aware of laws or they are
unable to bear the financial or social costs of justice. Supreme Court verdict on separation of
judiciary to be implemented without further delay.
50. Poverty Reductions and Employment Generation. Bangladesh is an
overpopulated disaster prone country having low resource base and extremely vulnerable
economy. The lack of remunerative employment and economic opportunities has led one third
of the youth community towards organised crime and violence. “The emergence of
Mastanocracy (local terrorism) imposing considerable ‘transaction cost’ on normal economic
activity has been singled out as a major barrier to private investment and socially secure life”41.
Thus, efforts to be taken by the govt to provide meaningful economic opportunities to the
unemployed youths, so that they do not indulge themselves in criminal activities for earning
their livelihood. NGOs should also be encouraged to expand their activities and area of
operation in connection with self-employment and poverty reduction drive.
51. Curbing of Corruption and Promoting Good Governance. Taking advantage
of prevalent corruption in administration, police and lower courts, the criminals are resorting to
violence without any fear of being prosecuted. There is a general consensus that promoting good
governance and curbing corruption can significantly improve prevailing law and order situation
and arrest armed violence. Good governance will imply depoliticisizing the state functionary
organs (especially the civil administration and law enforcing agencies), separation of power of
three branches of the govt, establishment of an efficient judicial system and not allowing the
nexus among criminals, police and politicians to develop. Above all, introduction of a truly
independent Anti-Corruption Commission and pursuing a policy of ‘zero tolerance’ in 40 Ibid . , p.177. 41 A National Strategy for Economic Growth, Poverty Reduction and Social Development, GOB, 2003, p.17.
26
combating corruption would contribute largely towards promotion of good governance.
“Improving governance and law and order and combating corruption still remained key
challenges of the Govt,”42 said the Finance Minister in a recent meeting with the donors.
52 Social Resistance and Community Policing . Since almost all segments of the
society is currently suffering from some kind of insecurity due to the violence generated by the
criminals, the people should be united to resist the same and augment the effort of the govt in
improving law and order. If people are united and committed to protect their own lives and
property then the violence generated by few armed criminals will end up in a natural death. The
civil society may also have a volunteer force of their own that should look after the safety of
lives and property of the community. However, care should be taken, so that the volunteers do
not take law in their own hand. Rather they should act as ‘force multiplier’ and put pressure on
the local administration and law-enforcing agency to improve the law and order in their own
area. In fact a strong community policing and effective social resistance can drastically reduce
the threat of violence in a particular area.
53. Avoidance of Border Skirmishes, Peaceful Settlement of Border Disputes and
Improvement of Intelligence effort. Border disputes to be amicably settled, illegal crossing
of borders to be stopped and shooting/killing of poor people along the border should be averted
through liaison and discussion at all level. Undemarcated stretches of land boundary (6.5 km)
need to be demarcated as early as possible. Alleged illegal migration should be curbed to avoid
‘push in’, ‘ push out’ debate. Incidences similar to PADUA and BARAIBARI should be
avoided at all cost. However, our border guards should remain vigilant to face any such
situation, if imposed upon. Intelligence effort of the nation should be geared up to include
organisational restructuring, improvement of efficiency and procurement of sophisticated
equipments.
54. Revival of Social Values. Our young generation to be imparted with good and
meaningful education. Basic teaching should come from the family and everybody has a
responsibility in this regard. Govt, opposition and civil society must ensure that modern and 42 The Daily Star, May 09, 2004.
27
scientific education is imparted and educational institutions are not used/affected for any
political gain. Sensor Board should ensure that violence and obscenity is not the prime
ingredient of the cinema. Govt should device a prudent policy to protect the society from
degenerated cultural invasion.
***
CHAPTER 6 - CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
CONCLUSIONS
55. The threats to the security of Bangladesh emanates from both traditional and non-
traditional sources. But the main threat is socio-economic and from consequences of such socio-
28
economic causes. However, discounting the possibility of traditional threats to our security
would be misleading and disastrous. We must not ignore the prospect of physical security
threats whatever be the source.
56. In the last few years the society has witnessed an abundant supply of illegal arms and a
sudden rise of armed violence. The availability of arms has changed the nature of violence and
made the criminals more organised. Today, violence and politics has become synonymous. The
nexus among criminals, police and politicians are mutually beneficial. Politicians are assured of
power and money, criminals can avoid arrest/prosecution and the police can reap financial
benefit in the process. On the other hand political interference, corruption, inadequacy of police
force for enforcement duty and lack of modern equipment and facilities have been identified as
the major causes of police ineffectiveness. Executive control over judiciary and inordinate delay
in delivering justice has further aggravated the situation.
57. In CHT, kidnapping and killing are a regular phenomenon through indiscriminate use of
weapons. Insurgent groups of North- Eastern states of India and Southwestern tip of Myanmar
(especially Rohingyas) are also active in the vicinity of our border. Armed cadres of under
ground leftist religious extremist parties are frequently engaged in armed violence especially in
southwestern districts. Recent arms recovery from CHT, Bogra and CUFFL jetty indicate that
Bangladesh has become a preferred route for transit in the flow of illegal weapons. Alarming
escalation of drug users has a direct bearing on the proliferation of weapons and increase in the
organised crimes. While drugs are increasingly being used to induct the youths into the criminal
syndicates, weapons are used to extort money to pay for drugs. The alleged piracy though
unfounded, if continue to take place, our competitors would spare no effort to profess our ports
as the most dangerous ports of the region. Vigilance in coastal area has become prime need of
time. Moreover, there has been an increase in border skirmishes and shooting/killing incidents
along Bangladesh-India border in recent years. Though these are non-traditional security issues,
yet over the years gained more prominence especially due to their military characteristics.
Individuals, groups, society and the nation as a whole are frequently afflicted directly or
indirectly by aforesaid ethnic, religious ideological conflicts and socio-economic violence.
29
58. Govt has taken various steps to protect the citizens from the menace of armed violence
such as: police reforms, creation of RAB, speedy trial of sensational cases, conduct of special
operation to nab the criminals, reform of legal and judicial system, etc. The law and order
situation has shown signs of improvement; many of the ‘top terrorists’ have been arrested/killed,
and the cross border insurgency has been reduced. The flow of illegal weapons through our
porous border and coastal area and the increased number of bombing incidences has now
emerged as the prime security concern of Bangladesh. However, socio-political and economic
issues have been identified as the major non-traditional military threats to the security of
Bangladesh.
RECOMMENDATIONS
59. The study has revealed certain aspects - something that threatens our security. In order to
address the threats pertaining to individual, societal and national security, following
recommendations are offered.
60. Establishment of Rule of Law.
a. Govt should immediately conduct an illegal arms collection campaign through
employing joint forces. Simultaneously, all entry points should be put under stringent
surveillance to check the influx of weapons.
b. More number of judges to be immediately appointed to dispose the arms related
cases without much delay. Capital punishment given by the lower court to notorious
criminals should be executed with bare minimum time with due approval from higher
court.
c. Govt should immediately implement the police reform to include: modernisation
of arms, equipments, vehicle and communication; provision of CCTV camera for
surveillance of KPIs/important public places and installation of Caller Identification in
30
Land Phones to address bomb threat; imparting appropriate training and making them
accountable; de-politicisation of police; etc.
d. Govt should ensure that there is none in the country who is above law. Office of
the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor should be de-politicised.
e. Community policing can largely help the people in combating armed violence
that threatens a particular community. A good example may be followed is “Lathi
Banshi Shomity” formed by the business community of Natore District Headquarters.
f. Bombing incidences should be stopped forth with. Proper investigation of recent
bombing incidences should be carried out; if required, foreign assistance may be sought.
61. Socio-Political and Economic Measures.
a. Govt in coordination with NGOs may undertake, among others, following
programmes: (1) rural infrastructure development (2) re-excavation of canal (3) creation
of self-employment opportunities through imparting skill development training and
providing micro-credit access. Insurgents of CHT, under ground cadres of left leaning
parties and extremist religious parties, and thousands of unemployed rural youths would
be benefited through aforesaid programmes. Similarly govt should undertake various
social awareness programmes and provide technical and vocational education to slum
dwellers in coordination with the NGOs.
b. Armed cadres of under ground parties to be approached to surrender and
rehabilitated. In CHT, small- scale tea gardens may be planned which is likely to absorb
a huge number of unemployed youth including ex-insurgents. Militant activities of
extremist Islamic organisations to be immediately curbed. Syllabus of ‘Kowmi
Madrasha’ education should be scrutinised and updated.
31
c. Govt should undertake specific programmes for revival of social values. Youths
should be protected from the menace of drugs and degenerated cultural invasion.
d. Cross-border insurgents should be denied access into our territory. Border
skirmishes should be avoided at all cost. Shooting and killing incidents of poor people
along the border should be stopped through negotiation.
e. Surveillance capability of the Coast Guard to be improved to guard against
illegal arms/drug trading and piracy.
62. Improvement of Intelligence Effort. To address the non-traditional military threats an
efficient intelligence network to be established. The network should incorporate sources from all
strata of the society in all the violence-infested area. A joint intelligence cell may be formed and
made responsible for data collection, analyses of incidents and forecasting of probable
events/vulnerabilities. A coordinated effort of all intelligence agencies is the prime need of time.
Hostile intelligence activities must be effectively monitored.
***
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Books and Articles
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32
4. Husain, Neila, ‘Small Arms and Violence in Bangladesh’, in National Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty – first Century, ed, Kabir, Mohammad Humayun, Dhaka, Academic Publishers, 2000. 5. Iftekharuzzaman, ed, South Asia’s Security- Primacy of internal Dimension, Dhaka: Academic Publishers, 1994.6. Kabir, Mohammad Humayun, National Security of Bangladesh in the 21st Century, ed, Dhaka, Academic Publishers, 2000.7. Khan, Abdur Rab and Barai, Munim Kumar, ‘Defence-Development Dilemma: The Bangladesh Perspective’ in National Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty- first Century, eds, Kabir, Mohammad Humayun, Dhaka, Academic Publishers, 2000.8. Khan, Muhammad Shahedul Anam, ‘Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty – first Century’ in National Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty- first Century, ed, Kabir, Mohammad Humayun, Dhaka, Academic Publishers, 2000.9. Khan, Rumana Samiruddin, Non-Military Security of Bangladesh: External Determinants, Dhaka, UPL, 19968.10. Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brigadier General ‘The Menace of Small Arms and Light Weapons: Challenges for Bangladesh’, paper prepared for the National Consultation on ‘Small Arms and South Asia: Challenges for Bangladesh’, Organised by BIISS and South Asia Partnership on February 12, 2001.11. Maniruzzaman, Talukder, Politics and Security of Bangladesh, Dhaka, UPL, 1994.12. Sinha, R K, Crimes Affecting state Security, New Delhi, Deep and Deep Publications, 1995.
Magazines and Journals
13. Alam, Brig A T M Zahirul and Kabir, Lieutenant Colonel A K M Humayun, ‘Security Challenges for Bangladesh in the 21st Century’, Bangladesh Army Journal, 28th Issue, January 2000.14. Azim, Kazi Mesbahul, Lieutenant Commander, ‘Non- Military Threats to Security of Bangladesh’Mirpur Papers, December 2001, p.3.15. Choudhhury Ishfaq Ilahi, ‘Security Challenges of South Asian Countries in the Coming Decade: An Overview’, BIISS Journal, Vol 21, Number 1, January 2004.16. Khan, Abdur Rab, ‘Interfacing Traditional and Non-Traditional Security in South Asia’, BIISS Journal, Vol 22, Number 4, October 2001.17. Tawhid, Mohammad, Major, ‘Post- Conflict Situation in CHT and Prospect for Lasting Peace’ Mirpur Papers, Issue Number 9, December 2003.
Newspapers
18. ‘Donors concerned’, The Daily Star, May 09, 2004 19. Editorial, The Bangladesh Observer, April 12, 2003.20. Editorial, The Independent, April 04, 2004.21. Haq, M. Emdadul, Prof ‘International Drug Traffickers and Security Concerns in Bangladesh’, The Daily Star, December 06, 2003.
33
22. Julhas Ripon and Islam, Aminul, ‘Pirates rule the Bay’, The New Age, November 03, 2003.23. Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brig Gen (Retd), ‘Chittagong arms haul: some queries’, The Daily Star, April 05, 2004.24. Rahman, S M Matiur, ‘Crushing Crime Network’, The Independent, March 09, 2004.25. Rehman, Shafique, Jai Jai Din, July 08, 2003.26. Yussouf, M. M, ‘Administration of Judicial System in Bangladesh’, The Daily Star, January 05, 2003.27. Zamir, Muhammad, ‘Arms smuggling must be stopped’, The Daily Star, April 01, 2004.
Discussion
28. Discussion with District and Session Judge, Sylhet, March 01, 2004.29. Discussion with Islam, Shamsul, DIG, Special branch of Police, dhaka, July 21, 2004.
Internet
30. Arrow i Ltd, http://www.arrowi.co.uk/Piracy.html.
Official Publications
31. A National Strategy for Economic Growth, Poverty Reduction and Social Development, GOB, 2003.
34
Appendix-I
THE LIST OF CAPTURED ARMS AND AMMUNITIONS FROM CUFFL JETTY
(On Night 1 st and 2 nd April 2004)
Serial Weapons, Ammunitions,
Explosives and Equipments
Quantity Remarks
1 SMG 7.62 mm, Type 56.1 692 NOs Country of Origin
Not known
2 SMG Magazine, Type 56.1 2792 NOs
3 SMG 7.62 mm, Type 56.2 600 NOs
4 SMG Magazine, Type 56.2 2400 NOs
5 Semi-Automatic Rifle Uzi 400 NOs
6 Semi-Automatic Rifle Uzi
Magazine
800 NOs
7 Tommy gun 100 NOs
8 Tommy gun Magazine 400 NOs
9 Rocket Launcher (RL), 40mm 150 NOs
10 Sight of RL 150 NOs
11 Rocket Launching Tube 2000 NOs
12 Rocket 840 NOs
13 Ammunition of SMG 7.62 mm 7,39,680 Rounds
14 Ammunition of Tommy gun 4,0.000 Rounds
15 Hand Grenade (t-82.2) 25,020 Rounds
16 Wireless Set 02 NOs
17 Cover Box of RL 01 Box
18 Bandolier 01 Box
19 Sling of various Weapons 01 Box
Source: Weekly Purnima, April 07, 2004.
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Appendix-II
STATISTICS OF KILLING/KIDNAPPING INCIDENTS AT CHT
(From 01 January to 30 June 2004)
Serial Month District
Killed Wounded Kidnapped
Tribal Bangalee Tribal Bangalee Tribal Bangalee
1 January
2004
Khagrachari 02
Rangamati 06 04 03 11
Bandarban
2 February
2004
Khagrachari 06 02 05
Rangamati 01 10
Bandarban 01 01
3 March
2004
Khagrachari
Rangamati 02 01 02 08 08
Bandarban 01 03
4 April
2004
Khagrachari 02 01 14
Rangamati 01 04 03 03 01
Bandarban 01
5 May
2004
Khagrachari 02 07 04 03
Rangamati 03 12
Bandarban 01 04 04
6 June
2004
Khagrachari 02 05 04 02 01
Rangamati 01 04 03
Bandarban
Total 21 03 34 31 69 11
Source: Army Headquarters.
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Appendix – III
STATISTISTICS OF CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES
Year Murder Dacoity Mugging/Arson Riot Women/ Oppression
Assault on Police
1999 3710 1018 1959 4019 8710 419
2000 3386 845 1157 2072 10535 264
2001 3678 758 1265 2161 12958 344
2002 3503 963 1397 1176 18455 281
2003 3471 949 1170 890 20242 271
Source: Police Headquarters, Dhaka, Police Week 2004 report July 21, 2004.
Enclosure-IIIa: Looking back at 2003 : A year of rising crimes, The Daily Star, January 2004.
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Appendix – IV
LIST OF UNDER GROUND LEFTIST POLITICAL PARTIES
Serial Name of the Party
Location of Office
Name of the Leaders Activities
1. Purba Banglar Communist Party (ML-Jano Judha)
Khulna Abdur Rashid Malitha (Tapan) Ripon Ahmed (Shoeb)BDR Altaf (Recently Killed)
a. Active in Khuna, Bagherhat, Chuadanga, Jhenida, Jessoreb. Fallower of Charu Majumdar of Nakshalbaric. Have links with Janajudha of Kolkata
2 Purba Banglar Communist Party (ML)
Khulna Mofakkhar HossainAbdur Rashid Tapu, (Killed on 20 May 2004)Rajab Bhangri
a. Active in Khuna, Bagherhat, Chuadanga. b. Involved in killing police and extortion.c. Presently less active.
3. Purba Banglar Communist Party (ML-Lal Pataka)
Khulna Dr Mizanur Rahman (Tutul) Abdus Salam Tapur
a. Started as Communist Anushilon Kendra.b. Active in Rajshahi Beltc. Have cooperation with ML Jano Judha
4. Purba Banglar Communist Party (Maobadi)
Khulna Mofiz (Nasim) a. Active in Khulna Belt b. Claim them as pure Nakshalite. c. Have established link with Maobadi of Nepal.
5. New Biplobi Communist Party
Khulna Monoranjan (Mrinal) Debu arrestedAbul Khair
Active in Khulna, Shatkhira, Jessore.
6. Bangladesher Sharbahara Party
Barisal Mamun Active in Faridpur, Jessore and Khulna
7. Purba Bangla Sharbahara Party
Sirajgonj Anwar Kaibr a. Active in Sirajgonj, Natore, Bogra and Naogaonb. Most Active Under Ground Party.c. Looted Arms from Police Outpost.
Source: Daily Prothom Alo, August 04-06, 2004.Discussion with Shamsul Islam, DIG Special Branch of Police, Dhaka on July 21, 2004.
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Appendix – V
LIST OF EXTREMIST RELIGIOUS PARTY ACTIVE IN BANGLADESH
Serial Name of Party
Location of Office
Known Leaders Activities and Area of Operation
1 Islami Biplobi Porishad
Daksmin Bashabo, Dhaka.
Moulana Abdul ZabberMr. Humayun Kabir
a. Conducted Meeting at Dhaka, Comilla and Sylhet.b. 10 Members were arrested from Comilla & Sherpur
2. Hizbut Tahrir
Elephant Road, Dhaka
Mr. Mohiuddin AhmedDr Syed Golam Mawla
a. Arranged Seminar at Dhaka, Comilla and Sylhet
3. Hizbut Tawhid
Uttara, Dhaka Mr Bayezid Khan Ponni (arrested)
a. Active in Barisal, Feni, Kushtia, Madaripur, Meherpur, & Narayangonj. b. Carries out Militant Training.
4. Harkat Ul Jihad Al Islam(HUJI)
Chittagong Mufti Shafiqur RahmanMufti Mohammad Hannan (absconding)Moulana IzharSheikh Farid
a. Have Training camps at Cox’s Bazaar and CHT.b. Accused for planting Bomb at the Venue of Ramna Batatmul and Udichi programme
5. Jamatul Mujahedin
Not known Dr Asadullah Ghalib a. Active in Rajshahi, Natore, Jaypur hat Bogra, Nowabgonj, b. Most active party.c. Many Members arrested with bombs/explosives.
6. Shadat-E-Al- Hikma
Not Known Syed Kawser Hossain Siddiqui
a. Activities disbanded from 09 February 2003.b. 5 Persons were arrested from Rajshahi before disbandment.
7. Jagrota Muslim Janata Bangladesh
Not Known Abdur Rahman (Bangla Bhai)
a. Established at Dhaka in 1998.b. Active in Naogaon, Rajshahi, Noabgonj, nature, Bogra, Chuadanga c. Main activity is to combat the atrocity of Sharbahara Party.d. So far killed 07 Sharbahara Cadre.
Source: Discussion with Shamsul Islam, DIG, Special Branch of Police, Dhaka on July 21, 2004. ‘Harkatul Jihad now active’, Daily Prothom Alo, August 16, 2004.
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Appendix – VI
STATE OF MAJOR BOMB BLAST INCIDENTS
Date Place killed Injured RemarksJanuary 1999 Chatak, Sylhet 03 Not
KnownBomb Blast in house of Mr. Manik, MP
20 January 1999 Paltan Maidan Dhaka
04 50 Explosion at CPB Rally
06 March 1999 Udichi Function, Jessore
10 100 Attack on Cultural Programme
08 October 1999 Ahmedia Mosque, Khulna
07 Not Known
Explosion at Mosque
September 2001 Shalna, Sunamgonj 04 Many Bomb Blast at Metting of Suranjit Sen Gupta
14 April 2001 Ramna Batmul Dhaka
09 30 Explosion at Pahela Baishakh Programme
28 September 2002 Sathkhira Stadium 05 Many Stadium 08 December 2002 Cinema Hall,
Mymensing18 200 Bomb Blast at Cinema
Hall12 January 2004 Mazar of Hazrat
Shah Jalal (R) 05 Many Grenade Blast during
Yearly ‘Orash’21 May 2004 Mazar of Hazrat
Shah Jalal (R) 03 70 Grenade Blast during visit
of British High Commissioner
05 August 2004 Cinema Hall, Sylhet 01 Many Time Bomb explosion in two Cinema Hall.
07 August 2004 In front of a Hotel, Sylhet
01 30 Grenade attack
Source: Anisur Rahman, ‘Terrorism in Bangladesh’, Weekend Independent, September 21, 2001.
Courier Report, ‘Blood and Tears at Mymensingh’, Dhaka Courier, December 13, 2002. Prothom Alo report, ‘Bomb Blast’, Daily Prothom Alo, August 08, 2004.
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