The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has reaffirmed its commitment to cracking down on underworld terrorism and ensuring nationwide security ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, the country’s second-largest religious festival.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday at the RAB Media Centre in the capital’s Karwan Bazar, Wing Commander MZM Intekhab Chowdhury, Director of RAB’s Legal and Media Wing, said that anti-terror operations and surveillance activities are continuing across the country without interruption.
“Our activities against terrorism are ongoing. The 15 battalions of RAB are conducting round-the-clock surveillance to prevent any subversive activities,” he said.
“If we receive any intelligence of such threats, legal action will be taken immediately as per the law.”
The RAB official further noted that parts of Dhaka remain under the influence of underworld figures, some of whom are operating from abroad.
“Territorial clashes and violence over illegal earnings continue to pose challenges, but RAB is fully prepared to respond,” he added.
In preparation for Eid-ul-Azha, RAB has been put on the highest alert to maintain law and order and ensure a safe, peaceful celebration across the country.
“RAB is on the highest level of alertness to handle any emerging situation and guarantee smooth and festive celebrations,” said Wing Commander Intekhab.
The security blueprint includes extensive monitoring of cattle markets, where large-scale financial transactions take place.
“There’s a genuine concern about the circulation of counterfeit currency by criminal groups. We’ve deployed fake note detection machines in market control rooms, and we urge everyone to make use of this service,” he said.
RAB’s vigilance has also been heightened to counter activities by pickpockets, swindlers, and so-called malam and ogyan parties—criminal groups known for incapacitating victims using chemical substances.
“We have intensified intelligence surveillance and patrols in and around cattle markets and major trading hubs to prevent such incidents,” the RAB spokesperson said.
Wing Commander Intekhab also detailed RAB’s efforts to ensure that only healthy animals are sold at the markets.
“With the assistance of veterinarians, mobile courts led by RAB magistrates are taking legal action against sellers of sick or chemically fattened animals,” he noted.
To prevent exploitation, RAB will ensure that the fee collection in cattle markets strictly follows the rates set by the City Corporations and local authorities.
“Any attempt to charge beyond the approved rate will be dealt with through legal measures,” he warned.
Moreover, the elite force is also focusing on extortion activities tied to animal transportation.
“RAB patrols have been intensified along key routes to stop extortion and ensure the safe movement of animals, especially into Dhaka,” he added.
RAB has urged citizens, particularly cattle traders and market-goers, to report any suspicious activity or seek assistance by contacting the RAB Control Room.
“RAB is always ready to ensure peace and safety. We request everyone to cooperate with law enforcement and celebrate Eid with joy and security,” Wing Commander Intekhab concluded.
