Director General of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and Additional IGP AKM Shahidur Rahman publicly apologized for the force's involvement in incidents of disappearances and killings, including the infamous seven murders in Narayanganj.
Speaking at a press conference held at the RAB Media Centre in Karwan Bazar on Thursday afternoon, he acknowledged the allegations against the elite force.
“I extend my apologies regarding the Narayanganj seven murders,” he said, emphasizing the importance of justice and accountability.
The RAB chief assured the public of reforms, adding: “As long as I am in charge, RAB will not be involved in such crimes at anyone's behest. I guarantee this.”
He also expressed a desire for the force to be exonerated through fair trials.
Responding to calls for the abolition of RAB, he said: “We will accept whatever decision the government takes. However, during my tenure, I am committed to ensuring RAB operates with devotion and integrity.”
He highlighted that ongoing investigations, including international probes into incidents like the helicopter shooting, are being fully supported by RAB.
“We are cooperating completely with these investigations,” he added.
The RAB chief revealed that since the force’s inception, 58 officers and 4,246 members have faced disciplinary actions for various offences.
Following the political changeover on August 5, 16 RAB members were arrested for crimes such as extortion, drug-related offences, and robbery.
“Law and order initially deteriorated after August 5, but RAB worked diligently to restore stability. Unfortunately, 16 members became involved in criminal activities, and we are taking strict action against them,” he said.
Since its establishment, RAB has arrested over 14,500 accused individuals and recovered 20,000 weapons, according to the DG. However, he admitted that the country’s law and order situation has yet to meet public expectations.
He also noted the challenges RAB has faced recently, including unrest among Ansar members, instability in the garment sector, and strikes at Palli Bidyut Samity.
The DG reiterated his commitment to ensuring RAB operates transparently and responsibly, aiming to restore public trust in the organization.
