Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) Director General Md Ahsan Habib Palash has acknowledged a weakness in monitoring over the Jungle Salimpur incident in Chattogram’s Sitakunda, where Yasin Bahini carried out a sudden attack.
He made the remarks while inspecting security arrangements at the National Eidgah ahead of Eid prayers on Tuesday.
Ahsan Habib Palash said RAB and police had checkpoints in Jungle Salimpur and operations were running properly. However, he admitted shortcomings in monitoring.
“We had some weaknesses. We could not monitor it properly,” he said.
He further said no illegal occupiers or Yasin Bahini members would be able to enter or remain in Jungle Salimpur.
“We will evict them in any way. So far, 30 people have been arrested. No force can re-enter there,” he added.
The RAB chief said the incident happened due to lack of caution. He said it should not be assumed that Yasin Bahini is stronger than RAB. He added that the attack took place suddenly and there was insufficient monitoring.
Palash also said RAB has taken extensive preparations for Eid-ul-Adha security. Special arrangements have been made to ensure safety during Eid congregations. Intelligence surveillance has been intensified, and the number of night security checkpoints and patrols has been increased.
He added that measures have been taken to ensure safe travel for homebound people. RAB is also working to prevent cattle-laden trucks from being forcibly diverted to cattle markets.
He said there is no security threat. However, he noted that theft and snatching usually increase in empty Dhaka during Eid holidays. For this reason, patrol teams have been increased both day and night.
RAB will also maintain strict monitoring to prevent rumours and misleading propaganda related to Qurbani, he added.
