The Bangladesh Army, working with law enforcement, arrested 44 people in nationwide operations from Sept. 18 to 25, seizing firearms, drugs, and explosives, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations office.
Authorities recovered seven illegal guns, a cocktail grenade, 132 rounds of ammunition, and other contraband.
While the arrests highlight the state’s determination to curb crime, the reliance on the military for routine policing raises serious concerns. The army is trained for defense, not civilian law enforcement, and its involvement risks undermining democratic accountability.
Maintaining public order and investigating crime should remain the responsibility of police and civilian institutions. Bangladesh must strengthen professional policing rather than depend on soldiers for day-to-day law enforcement.