RAB fully cooperating with UN fact-finding team, says Director General

Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) Director General AKM Shahidur Rahman affirmed that his force is fully cooperating with the United Nations Fact-Finding Mission investigating alleged human rights abuses in Bangladesh, particularly concerning the anti-discrimination movement.

Speaking at a meeting with the Crime Reporters Association of Bangladesh (CRAB) at RAB headquarters on Monday, the RAB chief stated, “The fact-finding team has already contacted and inspected the RAB. We have provided them with all requested information and will continue to do so as needed.”

During the discussion, Shahidur reiterated RAB's commitment to lawful conduct, assuring that the force will not engage in disappearances, extrajudicial killings, or any unlawful actions, according to a UNB report.

He firmly denied allegations of illegal activities within the elite unit, stating, “There is no such thing as ‘Aina Ghar (mirror house)’ in RAB, and the possibility of extrajudicial killings is nonexistent.”

The RAB chief emphasised that disappearances and murders are serious criminal offences that will not be tolerated within the force. “If any RAB member is found involved in such crimes, they will face strict consequences,” he added.

He also spoke about the security measures in place for the upcoming Durga Puja festival. "RAB is working in coordination with other law enforcement agencies to ensure the smooth celebration of Durga Puja," said Shahidur. He further noted that militants released on bail are being closely monitored, and any attempts to create unrest or spread rumours during the festival will be swiftly dealt with.

The meeting also featured remarks from CRAB leadership, including General Secretary Sirajul Islam, who highlighted various aspects of the organisation’s activities, and President Kamruzzaman Khan, who expressed gratitude for the ongoing cooperation between CRAB and RAB.

The RAB DG acknowledged the valuable role journalists play in his work.

Other CRAB members in attendance included Organizing Secretary Shahidul Islam Razi, Office Secretary Kamal Hossain Talukder, and Executive Committee members Ali Azam and Sheikh Kalimullah, all of whom participated in the discussion.