NON-TRADITIONAL MILITARY THREATS TO SECURITY:

CHALLENGES FOR BANGLADESH

CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION

1. There is a general consensus in Bangladesh over what constitutes a major threat to its

national security. Security analysts suggest that internal threats are more significant than

external ones. Tremendous problems the country is facing today are mostly socio – political and

economic in character and they constitute real security concerns. Lower level socio- political

cohesion, feeble resource base, demographical pressure, periodical natural calamities, etc. are

the inherent weaknesses of Bangladesh. Coupled with these, social conflicts, armed violence,

alarming escalation of weapons and explosives, smuggling of drugs and nexus of politics and

violence are the challenges that have moved to the top of our security agenda.

2. In recent years Bangladesh is witnessing two alarming trends: on the one hand a large

number of illegal weapons are in circulation and on the other, there is a gradual increase in

militant activities in the society. Today, organised crime gangs possess a considerable amount of

weapons and explosives and have the capability to threaten individual, societal and state

security.

3. Elements of under ground left leaning political parties operating in southwestern districts

possess considerable number of illegal weapons. Although these under ground elements have

lost their appeal as a political alternative, presently they sustain themselves by resorting to

organised crimes and extortion. They are also engaged in inter-party rivalry and killing each

other indiscriminately making the entire area a valley of terror. Similarly, the militant Islamic

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parties are also reportedly in possession of lethal weapons and are engaged in armed violence

and militant training in different areas of the country.

4. The insurgents of Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) were recipients of large quantity of

weapons from abroad. While some of these weapons were handed over to the government

during the Peace Accord of 1997, a large number of these have been kept aside in caches, some

of which have gone to different criminal gangs. The violence being currently witnessed in CHT

is the product of these weapons. Insurgent groups of North East (NE) states of India and

Southwestern tip of Myanmar (especially Rohingyas) are also active in the vicinity of our

border. Once under pressure, these insurgents often trespass into our territory and engage

themselves in armed violence and extortion for their subsistence.

5. There has been an increase in shooting and killing incidents along Bangladesh-India

border in recent years. Dispute over cultivation right in undemarcated stretches of the border,

extraction of stones from the disputed areas along mid stream river boundary, border crossing of

illegal migrants and rampant smuggling often induce shooting/ killing of poor people and border

skirmishes. The BARAIBARI incidence has given fuel to fire.

6. Bangladesh is presently confronted with tremendous rise in drug abuse and the

abundance of cross border drug supply. With the rise of narcotics related crime and offences, the

law and order situation has deteriorated significantly. The involvement of local criminal gangs

in international drug trafficking operations and spending of a portion of funds in procuring arms

and ammunition help in the increase of mafia type activities in the country. Again, the alleged

piracy in Bangladesh’s maritime territories has affected negatively not only the country’s image

internationally but also its largely sea-dependent trade. International Maritime Bureau (IMB)

puts Bangladesh as ‘one of the most dangerous points of the world’1 due to repeated and ill

motivated publicity of piracy related incidents over the last few years.

7. Individuals, groups, society and the nation as a whole are frequently afflicted directly or

indirectly by aforesaid ethnic, religious ideological conflicts and socio-economic violence. All 1 ‘Pirates rule the Bay’, The New Age, November 03, 2003.

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these issues being dependent on arms have military implications, though not in traditional

senses. These are non-traditional security issues, yet over the years gained more prominence.

Keeping the same in consideration, it is pertinent to raise certain questions: What are the sources

of non-traditional military threats to our security? What are the reasons for rapid expansion of

violent crimes in the society and whether these have any link with the escalation of arms? What

are the impacts of such non-traditional military threats on individual, society and the nation as a

whole? Finally, what all measures that the government and the society can take to enhance the

nations capacity to deal with such non-traditional military threats?

8. Keeping in perspective the foregoing questions the purpose of this study would be to

analyse the current and potential security concern of Bangladesh emanating from non-traditional

military threats within the conceptual framework of non-traditional security. An attempt will be

made to identify the issues pertaining to non-traditional military threats, conditions/causes that

lead to the escalation of armed violence, their linkage with arms and drugs and the possible

nexus among the criminal gangs, police and politicians. The study will also look into the impact

of all these elements on individual, societal and national security and suggest some measures to

address such security challenges.

9. Aim. The aim of this study is to identify security challenges of Bangladesh

pertaining to non-traditional military threats and suggest some measures to address such

challenges.

10. Scope. While addressing the non- traditional military threats to our security I will

confine my studies on the security threats emanating from organised armed bodies only. Though

there are other socio-economic and political violence where some arms and explosives are used

-these will not be discussed in details. Because these are mostly law and order related which can

be curbed by efficient and impartial police actions. But the border skirmishes, armed violence

carried out by highly sophisticated organised criminal gangs, armed cadres of under ground left

leaning political parties, members of the extremist religious parties, drug cartels, cross-border

insurgents/ insurgents operating in CHT, and pirates operating in our coastal areas pose greater

non-military threats to security and can’t usually be handled by traditional police force. To

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counter these threats, special force like Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), BDR, and Coast Guard

may require to be employed. In special circumstances joint operation may also be conducted

involving the regular forces.

11. Methodology . The method of research I intend to follow would be primarily

based on consultation of print media, observation and discussion. I would also take help from

related books, various media and collect information from concerned offices to address the

subject adequately. Efforts will be made to discuss with some informed personalities, i.e.

businessmen, police and intellectuals, who are directly or indirectly related to the study.

12. Chapter Plan. The rest of the study consists of five chapters. Chapter 2 addresses

the concept of non-traditional threats to security in Bangladesh perspective and reviews the

sources of insecurity emanating from non-traditional military threats. Chapter 3 contains the

impact of non-traditional military threats on individual, societal and national security. In chapter

4 steps so far taken by the government (govt) to counter the non-traditional military threats and

impacts of those steps are delineated. Chapter 5 contains suggested measures that can enhance

nation’s capacity to deal with non-traditional military threats to security. Chapter 6 contains the

concluding observation on the entire study and a few recommendations that may help all

concerned to cope with the challenges of non-traditional military threats and enhance her

national security.

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CHAPTER 2 - CONCEPT OF NON-TRADITIONAL THREATS TO SECURITY IN

BANGLADESH PERSPECTIVE AND SOURCES OF INSECURITY EMANATING FROM

NON-TRADITIONAL MILITARY THREATS

CONCEPT OF NON-TRADITIONAL THREATS TO SECURITY

IN BANGLADESH PERSPECTIVE

13. The concept of ‘national security’ had purely military and defence connotation after

Second World War. It was intimately linked with the ‘traditional’ thinking of security concept

and seemed to be appropriate for the Cold War period. Since the end of Cold War the concept of

security has gradually been changed. In the post Cold War period we witness the emergence of

inevitable process of globalisation and multi-dimensional threats to security, which have very

little relevance to ‘traditional’ military power. Today, the non-military threats arising out of

cross border insurgency, border skirmishes, ethnic conflicts, proliferation of small arms, drug

trafficking, ideological differences, political instability, social degeneration, nexus among

criminals, police and politicians, environmental degradation, etc. impinge more upon the over

all security of a nation. This transformation of the concept of security basically denotes a broad

shift of concept from traditional ‘state and military’ centric to the ‘people’ centric security1.

Presently ‘security means protecting the people’s life from various kinds of threats’2. Basing on

this security connotation it is pertinent to identify the threats that we are currently exposed to

and likely threats that we might have to encounter in foreseeable future. Much of the threats to

our national security stem from perennial internal problems and even many of the external

problems virtually crop up because of our inability to address the internal ones. Today a nation

like ours can be said to have assured its own security when it is economically developed,

politically stable and socio-culturally cohesive. For us, establishment of internally secured

political order, mitigation of social deprivation, addressing the grievances of ethnic/minority

community, etc. are the essential preconditions for cohesion of the society and national stability.

1 Azim, Lieutenant Commander, Kazi Mesbahul, ‘Non- Military Threats to Security of Bangladesh’, Mirpur Papers, December 2001, p.3.2 Quoted in Khan, Muhammad Shahedul Anam, ‘Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty – first Century’ in National Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty- first Century, ed, Kabir. Mohammd Humayun, p.16.

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However, this socio-economic approach to security cannot be taken to undermine the other

dimensions of it, particularly issues related to the protection of territorial integrity and national

sovereignty. We cannot forego the need for a credible deterrence and ‘ must be prepared to deter

the prospect of physical security threat whatever be the source4.

SOURCES OF INSECURITY EMANATING FROM NON-TRADITIONAL MILITARY THREATS:

CONCERN FOR BANGLADESH

General

14. Bangladesh as a small third world developing country faces wide range of non-

traditional military threats of serious nature to her security. The current and projected non-

traditional military threats are appended below:

THREATS FROM NON-TRADITIONAL MILITARY SOURCES

External Internal

Trans-border Insurgency Ethnic Issue

and Border Skirmishes

Arms Smuggling Socio-Economic Violence

Drug Trafficking Ideological Violence

International Terrorism Piracy

External Threats

15. Trans- border Insurgency and Border Skirmishes. The trans-border security

dimension of insurgency in CHT arises from the fact that NE states of India and Arakan state of

Myanmar are infested with chronic insurgency. This has the potentiality of spill over effects

across the state boundaries and in the process it may lead to a straining of inter- state relations

with serious security implications. The CHT insurgency could develop so much due to the fact

4 Ibid . , p. 18.

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that it received full external support of big neighbour. Similarly, India and Myanmar often

accuse Bangladesh of harbouring insurgents of those countries. When the contiguous ethnic

groups draw material and moral support from each other the domestic insurgency gradually may

acquire a trans-border character and likely to deteriorate inter-state relationship. On the other

hand, due to illegal border crossing and unresolved border disputes, border skirmishes and

shooting incidents frequently take place along indo-Bangladesh border. It has been learnt from

Bangladesh Rifles authority that 88 Bangladeshis have been killed in border shoot out from July

2002 to June 2004.

16. Arms Smuggling. For quite sometime it had been alleged that Bangladesh is a

transit route for illegal weapons, whatever may be its destination. The massive seizure of

modern arms and ammunition at Chittagong Urea and Fertilizer Factory Limited (CUFFL) jetty

on night 1st and 2nd April 2004 have jolted us into realising that how vulnerable the country has

become to subversive activities of arms dealers. The list of captured arms and ammunitions is

shown at Appendix-I. The location of our territory adjacent to insurgency-laden

neighbourhoods makes for vulnerability as an arms conduit in the region. Our low alert and

surveillance status might have maid us into favourite transit route for arms trafficking. It may be

mentioned here that there had been arms and ammunition haul at Bogra in June 2003, at Uttara,

Dhaka in October 2003 and at Kuril, Dhaka in November 20035. In all, there were 22 arms

smuggling incidents in 2003 and the authority could not unearth the motive of any of such

incidents. The sooner the government get the answers “for whom, by whom and from whom” of

the seized weapons, the better it will be for our over all security6. ‘Easy access to these

weapons, criminalisation of the society, the socio-economic violence, nexus of guns and drugs,

truck between the criminals and politicians have all had their respective inputs in the situation

obtain today in Bangladesh’7.

5 Zamir, Muhammad, ‘Arms smuggling must be stopped’, The Daily Star, April 01, 2004.6 Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brig Gen (Retd), ‘Chittagong arms haul: some queries’, The Daily Star, April 05, 2004.7 Quoted in Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brigadier General ‘The Menace of Small Arms and Light Weapons: Challenges for Bangladesh’, paper prepared for the National Consultation on ‘Small Arms and South Asia: Challenges for Bangladesh’, Organised by BIISS and South Asia Partnership on February 12, 2001, p.6.

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17. Drugs Trafficking. Geographically Bangladesh is located at the heart of the

drug-producing region: in the east the golden triangle, in the north the golden wedge and in the

west across India the golden crescent. Bangladesh has direct air, sea and road communications

with the major drug producing countries in the region. Its multiple communications with the

poppy growing countries made Bangladesh a major consumer and geographical crossroads for

illicit drugs from Myanmar, India, Pakistan and Nepal. As a result of this development the Paris

based Interpol organization in 1996 suggested that roughly 5% of world drug trafficking is

‘routed through Bangladesh’8. This has led a big number of our younger generation to become

drug addict and compelled them to engage in criminal activities. ‘Possession of illegal weapons

by drug traffickers is contributing to the spread of fear and violence making the overall social

condition vulnerable’9.

18. International Terrorism. International terrorism around the world is gradually

increasing despite concerted efforts against it. Since it is not confined to any geographical area,

we can’t expect to remain immune of it. Though there is no substantial evidence of international

terrorism in Bangladesh yet it is argued that there are some extremists who are engaged in

terrorist activities in Bangladesh. These extremists consist of persons from religious or leftist

groups. Besides, there are millions of unemployed youths who are currently engaged in criminal

activities and violence in the name of ideological struggle. There are also thousands of Madrasa

students who have practically very little employment opportunities. These people have the

potentials to become terrorists unless appropriate measures are taken to generate enough

employment opportunities for them. The recent incidents of bomb blasts in various places of the

country are a matter of great security concern for Bangladesh.

Internal Threats.

19. Ethnic Issue

8 Haq, M. Emdadul, Prof ‘International Drug Traffickers and Security Concerns in Bangladesh’, The Daily Star, December 06, 2003, p.1.9 Ibid. p.3.

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a. Clashes between Indigenous and Migrant People. The CHT Peace Accord of

1997 has brought an end (at least theoretically) to the 23 years old insurgency. But the

dispute over Bangalee settlement continues to remain. Tribesmen displaced due to the

inundation of the Kaptai Lake were already in occupation of the lands, which appeared

to be ‘khash lands’ of the District Revenue Officer. Settlement of Bangalees in these

fringe lands further displaced the tribal people. The tribal people viewed the Bangalee

settlers as their opponents. Ever since, it was the Bangalee settlers who were the primary

victims of the insurgents (Shanti Bahini). They have come under repeated attack of

Shanti Bahini (SB) from the time of their settlement. For their survival they have also

been organised and gained some capability to retaliate. Thus, it can be said that the

armed violence in CHT is likely to continue till the time maximum of the weapons

possessed by the insurgents/non-tribal are recovered and disputes over land use are

settled.

b. Clashes between Insurgent Groups. After the signing of Peace Accord,

factions of three hill organisations which differed with Jono Shonghoti Shamity (JSS) on

the Peace Accord, e.g. Pahari Chatra Porishod (PCP), Pahari Gono Porishod (PGP) and

Hill Women Federation (HWF) formed a political party namely United Peoples

Democratic Party (UPDF) and started working against the Peace Accord. Thereby, tribal

leadership has been divided into two factions i.e. Pro-Peace Accord Group (JSS) and

Anti-Peace Accord Group (UPDF). Currently JSS and UPDF are carrying out killing and

kidnapping the members of each other. Non-tribal people are also involved/affected.

Statistics of killing and kidnapping incidents in CHT from January to June 2004 is given

at Appendix-II.

20. Socio- Economic Violence.

a. Violent Crimes conducted by Criminal Gangs. Killing, dacoity, mugging,

arson, etc. have been on the rise for quite sometime. The life and property of the

ordinary citizen have been subjected to a great threat. Especially the syndicated criminal

gangs have made a haven of their own by flexing their guns and muscles throughout the

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country. The recent killing of a businessman along with his son and the driver followed

by cutting of their bodies into pieces has horrified the entire nation. The organised

criminal gangs having sophisticated armouries, a well-organised multi-layered security

perimeter and communication network, and alleged link with political godfathers are

carrying out uninterrupted atrocities throughout the country. The situation has further

been aggravated by the poor law enforcement by the concerned agency and in some

cases by their direct involvement in extortion and other activities10. Statistics of major

criminal activities in last five years is shown at Appendix-III (details of the criminal

incidents of 2003 enclosed).

b. Abduction for Ransom. The armed criminal gangs have not confined their

activities in urban areas only rather they have extended their operation throughout the

country. The port city of Chittagong has become a haven for abductors. More than 50

people reportedly have been abducted for ransom in last year. According to press reports

tormentors freed abducted persons after receiving ransom but some were also killed. The

fear of abduction has reached to such a level that every affluent person in Chittagong

city has now become prone to it. The alleged nexus between police and the criminal

gangs has increased the level of fear. People were shocked on being informed that ‘a

team of DSB led by an inspector allegedly abducted businessman Abul Showdagor and

his son at gun point in June last year’11.

21. Ideological Violence

a. Killing by Under Ground Left Leaning Extremist Parties. While the whole

country is witnessing proliferation of arms and lawlessness, the people of southwestern

districts are subjected to a special kind of insecurity. There, the underground left leaning

extremist parties such as various factions of Purba Banglar Communist Party (PBCP)

and Shorbohara Party are carrying out atrocities indiscriminately. Besides, there are

some followers of PBCP (Jonojudha), and PBCP (Lal Pataka), who have links with

Nakshalite movements in India and are operating in southwestern districts. List of Under 10 Rahman, S M Matiur, ‘Crushing Crime Network’, The Independent, March 09, 2004.11 Ibid.

10

Ground Parties operating in Bangladesh is furnished at Appendix-IV. It has been learnt

through different press that people of those areas are passing their days in panic due to

the ever-rising terrorist activities12. The report says that people have become hostage of

different outlawed parties and are forced to pay toll under gun threat. If any one denies

paying the fixed toll, his life is threatened. Besides, the outlawed parties are also

engaged in inter-party fighting due to which a number of armed cadre have lost their

lives in recent times. Almost everyday there are some reports of killing of armed cadres

in those areas. The armed cadres also killed police and prominent journalists.

b. Violence generated by Militant Religious Organisations. There has been

an allegation that some extremist religious organisations are working in some part of

Bangladesh. Notable among those are Hijbut Tawhid. There are other similar parties

namely Harkat Ul Jihad al Islam, Jamiatul Mujahedin, Jagrota Muslim Janata

Bangladesh, Muslim Rakkha Mujahedin Dikhya Porishod, etc. List of Extremist

Religious Organisations operating in Bangladesh is furnished at Appendix-V. It has

been alleged that the bombing incidents at Udichi function, Paltan meeting, Ramna

Botmul, Mymensing and Sylhet cinema hall, Mazar of Hazrat Shah Jalal (R), Hotel

premise at Sylhet, etc. may have some links with extremist religious parties. State of

major Bomb Blast incidents is shown at Appendix-VI. Currently almost everyday

unidentified criminals are sending bomb threats over telephone for creating a sense of

fear and insecurity. The grenade attack on a political gathering on 21st August 2004,

which killed approximately 20 and injured more than hundred, is the most devastating

incident.

22. Piracy.

a. Deep Sea Piracy. Chittagong, which handles 80% of Bangladesh’s export,

has been marked by IMB as world’s second most vulnerable port to piracy. The types of

piracy witnessed in Bangladesh is mainly seaway robbery and are usually conducted by

smaller groups who rob the crews and depart quickly or at times steal valuable cargos 12 Editorial, The Independent, April 04, 2004.

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and removable equipment of the ships. The ships operating in Bay of Bengal have also

suffered from some serious lethal pirate attacks as a result of which the Bangladesh

Navy and Coast Guard conduct regular patrols around Chittagong port 13. It has also been

reported that the pirates have some links with arms smugglers and drug traffickers and

their combined actions pose a great threat to our national security.

b. Piracy along Coastline. Piracy along the coastline is a regular phenomenon

where the pirates loot the vessels carrying cargo. They also snatch away the cash and

valuables belonging to the crews. The fishing trawlers are also the lucrative targets of the

pirates. This is a direct result of the inadequacy of coastal police patrolling. Recently

angry locals have killed 28 people suspected of being pirates. Prior to that pirates have

allegedly killed 20 villagers and crews of smaller vessels plying along the coastline14.

Reasons for the Rise of Armed Violence

23. Spread of Small Arms. ‘The small arms are being increasingly used as the final

arbiter of unresolved issues between individuals, groups and political parties in Bangladesh

today’15. The availability and use of weapons were first witnessed during our war of liberation.

After the independence many decided to retain the weapons and ammunitions once call for

surrender of their weapons were made. That was the beginning of proliferation of small arms in

Bangladesh. Then, during the signing of CHT Peace Accord ‘a sizable proportion of the SB

members have not surrendered arms’16. Some of the weapons held by the insurgents had been

reportedly sold to the criminals. Moreover, ‘a string of large arms haul in the last few months

suggest that insurgent groups in South Asia are targeting Bangladesh as a transit point for gun

running not only because of its strategic location but also because CHT has 172 km porous

border with India and Myanmar’. A considerable portion of these arms and ammunition finds its

way into the local market as evident from the recent arms hauls by the security forces from

different places. It is learnt from various national dailies that 99,957 rounds of ammunitions and

13 Arrow i Ltd, http://www.arrowi.co.uk/Piracy.html.14 ‘Pirates Rule the Bay’: The New Age, November 03, 2003.15 Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brigadier General, op.cit. , p.5.16 Khan, Abdur Rab and Barai, Munim Kumar, ‘Defence-Development Dilemma: The Bangladesh Perspective’ in National Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty- first Century, ed, Kabir, Mohammd Humayun, p.48.

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6 kgs of explosives have been recovered from Bogra from 10 June - 20 July 2003. Criminal

gangs rely entirely on the force of arms to exist. ‘There are between one and two hundred

thousands illegal arms in the country of which fifty thousands are in Dhaka city alone17.

24. Ineffectiveness of Law Enforcing Agencies. It is alleged that the armed violence

currently prevailing in the country is the product of ineffective police system. Every police

station maintains a list of criminals. But most of the known criminals maintain liaison with the

police of their own areas. Police usually are reluctant to take any action against the criminals for

different reasons. Telephone calls from political godfathers frequently silence the police. On the

other hand criminal gangs cannot continue their operation for long without giving the share of

extorted money to the police. The ineffectiveness of law enforcing agencies also owe much to

the lack of accountability, corruption down the chain of command, lack of modern arms and

equipment, and non- availability of police force for actual law enforcement duties. ‘Only 38%

of the total force are actually involved in duties like prevention, detection and investigation of

crimes, prosecution of criminals and maintenance of the law and order, which concerns the

common men. The rest (62%) are engaged in various other activities, such as protection of VIPs

and dignitaries, key point installations, escort and other miscellaneous functions’18.

25. Cross Border Linkage of Criminals. The criminal gangs of Bangladesh are

reported to have good relations with the criminal gangs of neighbouring countries. The porous

border provides an added advantage to the criminals to cross over the border after committing a

crime to avoid arrest. Police authorities in West Bengal asserted that the kingpins of criminal

gangs operating along Bangladesh border are based in Kolkata19. During ‘Joint Operation Clean

Heart’ many of the top terrorists crossed the border and took shelter in West Bengal. Kolkata

police arrested some of them but they were not handed over to Bangladesh authority on flimsy

ground. The privilege of having shelter across the border provides added advantage to the

criminals to evade arrest and prosecution.

17 Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brigadier General, op.cit., p.7.18 Husain, Neila, ‘Small Arms and Violence in Bangladesh’, National Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty – first Century, ed, Kabir, Mohammd Humayun, p.170. 19 Haq, M. Emdadul, Prof, ‘International Drug Trafficking and Security Concerns in Bangladesh’, The Daily Star, December 06, 2003, p.2.

13

26 Judicial System. Due to complicated and prolonged judicial system the criminals in

most of the cases can evade punishment. This gives a carefree attitude to the terrorists. A case

usually takes about ten to twenty years on average from date of filing to date of judgement. Due

to unlimited delay and uncertainty about disposal of cases, involved criminals remain on bail

and in turn lives of the victims become more vulnerable. It is reported that a total of ten million

cases are now pending in different courts of the country. A horrible state of affairs is prevailing

in our system of criminal administration involving the entire process of investigation,

prosecution and trial. The criminals are aware that they can get away with any crime through the

large holes in the net of judicial administration. Today, ‘ordinary citizens do not trust the legal

system, the police and the courts - to deliver fair and speedy justice’.

27. Nexus among Criminals, Police and Politicians. In Bangladesh, criminals are

increasingly getting the political patronage. ‘Politicians directly or indirectly support and

sponsor terrorism or engage themselves in criminal offence in order to come to power, remain in

power, to take revenge or simply to get rid of an adversary. Hence, the politician’s personal or

party interest demands links with the criminal underworld’20. The nexus between criminals and

politicians is mutually beneficial. The criminal is ensured of political cover for his crimes and

the politician’s power base is assured by the muscle power of the criminals. On the other hand

once the criminals are taken in police custody for any alleged crime, they immediately receive

instructions from the political masters for their release. Taking advantage of such situation the

corrupt police release the criminals reaping some financial benefits.

28. Extremist Movement. Many thinkers feel that the rise of extremist movement and

the violence generated by the extremists is due to a general change in peoples’ attitude towards

authority. It may also be called the only means available to a weaker group for fighting a

stronger opponent. There is a requirement to study the political, ideological and economic

factors - any of which may have provided the cause for the movement. Factors contributing to

armed violence generated by the leftist extremist groups in the south-western districts may be

attributed to the lack of dispensation of social justice, poverty, unemployment, inefficiency of

20 Husain, Neila, op.cit. , p.171.

14

the administration and law enforcing authority. However, it is generally accepted that the

economic and social factors are the root causes of all armed violence.

29. Inadequacy of Intelligence. To combat the criminal gangs and extremist cadres,

the need for a reliable and timely intelligence is critical. If the intelligence is weak, the law

enforcing agencies cannot act– they can only react. Penetration into the underworld environment

and countering their activities need real time and accurate intelligence. For this, what is most

important is better coordination amongst various intelligence agencies, closer and expanding

contacts with the local people where criminals or extremists meet and operate, background

information, exploitation of the captured activists/criminals through speedy interrogation, etc.

But unfortunately in our country these essential elements are very much missing. Resultantly,

intelligence obtained is wasteful, being duplicated or is belated and quite often unreliable. The

mass arrest prior to 30 April 2004 and raid conducted in DOHS in last week of July 2004 is the

manifestation of such unreliable and misled information. On the other hand, the repeated

incidents of throwing bombs to destabilize the country and attempt to depict Bangladesh as a

‘dysfunctional state’ may be the outcome of a deliberate propaganda campaign of hostile

intelligence agency. We need to remain watchful in this regard.

30. Cultural Degeneration. The kind of violence and obscenity currently shown in the

movies and electronic media is largely responsible for the degeneration of social values and

consequent increase in violent crimes in the society. ‘Boma Hamla’, ‘Khaisi Tore’, ‘Dhor’, etc.

are the names of some recent movies, which can give little idea about their contents.

***

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CHAPTER 3 – IMPACTS OF NON-TRADITIONAL MILITARY THREATS ON

INDIVIDUAL, SOCIETAL AND NATIONAL SECURITY

31. Impact on Individual Security. ‘In Bangladesh, there is a general apprehension

that there is not enough of individual security. Such fear is obviously not unfounded. The recent

rise of crimes, terrorism, and violence is the principal cause for such anxiety’21. The feeling of

insecurity is further enhanced by the individual’s fear of not being adequately protected by the

concerned state organs. The recent incidents indicate that almost all categories of people are

victims of ‘organized’ crime. ‘While it is true that the prime targets are political opponents,

businessmen, industrialists, etc. today’s terrorists also target the common men, such as the poor

trader, the hawker, the passer-by and so on’22. The recent incident of an open entry of an armed

gang of dozen persons with sophisticated weapons in broad daylight and amongst thousands of

onlookers and killing of a law maker at Tongi is perhaps the perfect example of the ‘individual

insecurity’ currently prevailing in the society.

32. Impact on Societal Security. Bangladesh is a society where social inequalities and

cleavages are prominently visible. On the one hand there is abject poverty pervading the society,

and on the other there is acute inequity in the distribution of wealth in both urban and rural

areas. The vast segment of lower-middle and low-income working class, the unemployed, the

near or total landless peasants and destitute and disadvantaged in both rural and urban areas are

leading a sub-human life. This very socio-economic condition prepares the base for criminal

activities to flourish in a particular society. When majority of the people living in a particular

society feel the same kind of vulnerability and insecurity, one can assume that in that particular

environment there exists ‘societal insecurity’. The possession of weapons by the criminals,

coverage of crimes by the political masters and inaction on the part of the law enforcing

agencies compel the society to suffer from helplessness, defencelessness and unprotected ness.

21 Ibid., p.172.22 Ibid.

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33. Impact on National security. The gradual rise of armed violence, extortion at gunpoint,

murder and kidnapping for ransom are posing as a great threat to country’s security. Nearly

every section of the society is experiencing a fear of violence and a sense of insecurity. Truck

drivers are killed and truck along with the cargo looted; minor girl and a BUET student have

been killed in cross fire; leading businessmen have been kidnapped for ransom; journalists have

been tortured and murdered - all these incidents together contribute towards poor law and order

situation and political instability. ‘Political instability, nexus of politics and violence,

proliferation of small arms, etc. are all recipes for disaster and, unless addressed, will impact on

our national security adversely’23. Possession of illegal weapons by the criminal gangs is

contributing to the spread of fear and violence, making the overall social conditions vulnerable.

On the other hand funnelling of drug money also can help trigger terrorism and organised crime

and eventually can destabilise the political system. Today, violence and politics has become

synonymous. ‘The campus violence, an extension of violent politics at the national level, has

seriously affected academic functioning: student armed cadres frequently turn the campuses into

battlegrounds’. In CHT, JSS and UPDF are kidnapping and killing each other through

indiscriminate use of weapons. Non-tribal are also increasingly getting involved in violence and

criminal activities due to easy access to arms. Shooting and killing of persons along

Bangladesh-India border develop tension very often. Last, but not the least is the impact of

piracy. The IMB designated Bangladesh second in world, which has affected negatively not

only the country’s image internationally but also its largely sea-dependent trade. However,

according to our Shipping Minister ‘such reports are nothing but a concerted propaganda by

certain international quarters to tarnish the image of Bangladesh and thus create a pretext to

increase freight charges’24. Again, for three years in a row, Transparency International has

ranked Bangladesh as the country perceived to be the worlds most corrupt. Side by side there is

a propaganda campaign being pursued by the interested quarter to depict Bangladesh as a

‘fundamentalist infested and dysfunctional country’. The deterioration of law and order situation

coupled with increased violence in the society, tensed border, the image crisis and the hostile

propaganda campaign are posing threat to our ‘national security’.

***

23 Khan, Muhammad Shahedul Anam, op.cit. , p.1824 ‘Pirates Rule the Bay’, The New Age, November 03, 2003.

17

CHAPTER 4 - STEPS TAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT TO COUNTER NON-

TRADITIONAL MILITARY THREATS AND IMPACTS

34. Restructuring of Police Force. It has been pointed out through various discussions

that the police force are ill supplied in terms of both manpower and equipment. It is said that the

criminals have more sophisticated weapons than that of the police. The recent recovery of

weapons in various places provides necessary proof to the said statement. All these prompted

for an immediate police reform. Accordingly the Govt of Bangladesh (GOB) has taken decision

to increase the police strength and allotted additional budget to procure vehicles and equipment.

Age old .303 riffle is being replaced. ‘The govt has recently decided to establish separate

investigation unit and law and order unit in Thanas of the country within their manpower and to

work independently under the supervision of OC of the respective Thanas’25. System of training

is gradually being improved.

35. Creation of Special Force. As mentioned earlier, the criminals are in possession of

highly sophisticated weapons and maintain a very effective communication network. They also

maintain multi-layered security parameter due to which they can evade arrest during police

operations. Effective use of mobile phones added to their operational capability and security. To

address these challenges GOB has recently formed special police force namely ‘RAB’. Seven

battalions are being formed and one battalion to be located at each Divisional Headquarters. By

now they are working in almost all over the country. Some members of armed forces have been

sent on deputation to form part of these battalions. ‘Their crucial difference from the armed

forces is that they apply their military training under civil laws and regulations. They do not

operate under battlefield conditions of engaging the enemy, but use their military training and

superior equipment to carry out normal police functions’26. With the full fledged functioning of

RAB it is expected that the number and extent of violent crimes would considerably decrease. It

may be mentioned that they have recently captured ‘top terror’ Picchi Hannan. Most of the top

terrors have reportedly left the country and those staying in the country are continuously on the

run due to RAB’s relentless pursuit.

25 Yussouf, M. M, ‘Administration of Judicial System in Bangladesh’, The Daily Star, January 05, 2003. 26 Editorial, The Bangladesh Observer, April 12, 2003.

18

36. Speedy Trial of Sensational Cases. To improve the deteriorating law and order

situation govt has promulgated an ordinance for speedy trial of six major criminal offences like

murder, rape, possession of illegal arms, narcotics, explosives and hoarding. In the preliminary

stage 6 tribunals have been set up in the divisional headquarters and 19 in other greater districts

have been/would be established gradually. ‘Since the establishment of special tribunal for

speedy trial of heinous crime, 58 criminals have been awarded death sentence while 69 others

have been awarded imprisonment for life term in 2002’27. Special tribunals have disposed of

some of the very sensational cases and helped to regain people’s confidence in establishment of

rule of law. However, due to the shortage of Judges the special tribunals have not been able to

dispose the cases as expected28. Capital punishment given by these courts to some of the

dangerous criminals i.e. Ershad Shikder has impacted favourably on overall law and order

situation.

37. Joint Operation against Under Ground Left Leaning Parties. The GOB has launched a

joint operation (Operation Spider Web) comprising members of police and para-military forces

since 20 July 2003 to improve the deteriorating law and order situation especially in

southwestern region of the country. In fact, the under ground left leaning parties are currently

engaged in indiscriminate killing and extortion activities in that area. Since the launching of the

operation many terrorists have been arrested and a good number of weapons recovered. But it is

very difficult to combat these terrorist groups as after committing crimes in one district they

quickly move to another district or simply cross over the border, where they have safe

sanctuary29. Besides, the alleged police/ political patronisation of the extremists is acting as a

great hindrance in combating the under ground terrorists. However, RAB is gradually being

deployed and situation is expected to improve.

38. Reform in Judicial System. To ensure quick dispensation of justice and enforcement

of rule of law ‘the govt enlarged number of magistrate courts, district courts and divisions of

High Court for speedy disposal of cases’30. In last year the Law Minister said in a seminar that

27 Shafique Rehman, Jai Jai Din, July 08, 2003.28 Discussion with District and Session Judge, Sylhet, March 01, 2004.29 Discussion with Islam, Shamsul, DIG, Special Branch of Police on July 21, 2004 and statements given by recently arrested top under ground cadres that was published in different dailies.30 Yussouf, op.cit.

19

‘the present govt is working relentlessly to establish an Independent Human Rights

Commission, Anti Corruption Commission and Ombudsman to ensure rule of law in the

country’. He also mentioned that ‘the work is in progress of comprehensive reform for judicial

capacity building, train up judges and lawyers and remove flaws from the judicial system’31. The

govt is also working for the separation of judiciary as per the directives of Supreme Court.

39. Weapon Collection Drive. From time to time the govt has taken up special

measures to curb the spread of illegal weapons like arms collection drive in various part of the

country. But compared to the circulation of weapons throughout the country the recovery rate

has been very insignificant. It is alleged that along with the influx of illegal weapons there are

huge number of licensed guns that are in circulation amongst the criminal gangs within the

country. The armed cadres of party in power received huge number of licensed weapons either

in their own name or fake name. During ‘Joint Operation Clean Heart’ govt ordered to deposit

all licensed weapons to the authority. Through this move circulation of a good number of

weapons could be stalled for the time being.

Impacts on Security Scenario.

40. The security scenario of the country has not yet been significantly changed.

Confrontational politics, politically linked violence, growing crime and corruption are holding

back the nations’ growth. In the Bangladesh Development Forum Meeting held from 8-10 May

2004, Mr. Proful Patel (Vice-President of World Bank’s South Asia Region and Head

Coordinator of the Donor Community) commenting on the killing of a law maker said,

“politicians can take care of some of the norms on which a healthy society relies - personal

security, transparency, fair legal protection, a level regulatory playing field. Bangladeshi’s will

do the rest”. Honourable Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, in her opening address explained

the govt’s position on the issues and said “ We have taken a number of measures to improve the

law and order situation. The parliament has recently enacted a law for creating RAB in order to

curb crime expeditiously. The battalion has gone into operation in Dhaka metropolitan city and

its positive impact on the overall law and order situation is already visible”32. Reorganisation of 31 Ibid. 32 ‘Donors concerned - - - graft’, The Daily Star, May 09, 2004.

20

police force, employment of RAB, ongoing judicial reform, establishment of the institutions of

good governance, dispensation of justice without any prejudice and effective control of flow of

weapons, etc. if are executed with true earnestness, the security scenario of the country is likely

to improve in near future.

***

CHAPTER 5 - SUGGESTED MEASURES THAT CAN ENHANCE NATION’S CAPACITY

TO DEAL WITH NON- TRADITIONAL MILITARY THREATS

21

41. Controlling the Influx of Weapons. As has been mentioned earlier, presently our

society has become weapon dependent. ‘There is weapon behind rent seeking, suppression of

political opponents, acquisition of government contracts, robbery and the like crimes’. Poor

governance has much to do with the ‘weaponisation’ of our society. Thus, political patronisation

of criminals must cease. Anyone in possession of illegal weapon and engaged in armed violence

should be taken into task irrespective of his party affiliation. Although the existing law in

respect of arms is adequate, its application remains subjective. Special courts that have been set

up should be provided with adequate number of judges to deal with arms related cases speedily.

Sale of legal weapons must also be monitored as it is alleged that gun dealers enter false sales in

their books to licensed gun owners, who are also involved in it. Stringent measures are to be

taken at the borders and other entry points for controlling the influx of arms. Building up of

database, coordination with neighbouring states and international organisation, sharing of

information, etc. is essential in this regard. Local manufacturers of illegal weapons to be

severely dealt with. From the human security perspective it is viewed that proliferation of small

arms is related to poverty, under-development and despair. Thus, we must go into the root cause

of this problem. Merely treating it in isolation without addressing the socio-economic-political

aspects, may not endure the test of time33.

42. Controlling Cross-border Insurgency. ‘Insurgents and infiltrators, whether local or

foreign, have been active carriers of small arms and light weapons’34. Recent recovery of huge

quantity of weapons in CHT from the insurgents suggests that there is a linkage between cross

border insurgents and consequently spread of illegal weapons. It is reported that a large number

of small arms are smuggled in from across the border daily from various insurgent groups of NE

India or Myanmar. On the other hand the huge quantity of arms recovered from the CUFFL jetty

were allegedly meant for a well organised and trained groups active beyond our border.

Whoever might be the user it is certain that there is a well-organised group in Bangladesh,

playing a part in a team of international illicit arms dealer. We must not also feel satisfied that

those items were not meant to be used in Bangladesh. In fact, these weapons are capable of

creating havoc anywhere. An exacerbation of the ongoing turmoil in our neighbourhood would

33 Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brigadier General, op.cit., p.7.34 Husain, Neila, op.cit., p.176.

22

have consequences that might be difficult for us to deal with in future35. The highest authority of

our big neighbour already expressed their concern in this regard. Thus, there is a need to

identify and apprehend the involved syndicate and also take appropriate measures so that in

future our territory is not used for arms trafficking. It is of vital strategic interest to Bangladesh

that she ensures insurgents of neighbouring countries do not get any shelter inside her territory.

43. Police Reform. It is said that with the existing organisational structure and

capability it is very difficult on the part of the police to address the prevailing scale of armed

violence. Thus, there is a need for an immediate increase of police force and to provide them

with modern weapons, communication facility and equipments to deal with the sophisticated

weapons and explosives available with organised criminal gangs. Recent bombing incidents

suggest that police should be provided with sophisticated surveillance devices to gather prior

information. Both police and RAB should give more emphasis on developing their intelligence

effort. They should be provided with appropriate and adequate number of vehicles to reach to

the target within shortest possible time. Most important is, RAB and Police should be allowed to

carry out their tasks without political interference. Their recruitment, posting and promotion

should be on the basis of merit and not the political allegiance.

44. Control of Drug Trafficking. ‘The Paris based Interpol organisation in 1996 suggested

that roughly 5 per cent of world drug trafficking is routed through Bangladesh’36. In recent years

the volume of cross-border drug trafficking has increased tremendously, creating a serious

concern for the law enforcement agencies. With the rise of narcotic-related crime and offences,

the law and order situation has deteriorated significantly. A significant number of killings are

linked to disputes over drug business. Apart from this, the illicit drug trade is also responsible

for social erosion, spreading of mafia culture, destabilization of civil society and political

system. A well-concerted effort needs to be given to curb the trafficking and use of drugs. It

should be remembered that there is a synergic link between the proliferation of weapons and

drugs. Trying to combat either in isolation would be futile. We ought to consider drug

trafficking as a threat to international security rather than dealing with it only in a traditional

context of national security. 35 Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brig Gen (Retd), ‘Chittagong arms haul: Some queries’, The Daily Star, April 05, 2004.36 Haq, Emdadul, op.cit., p.3.

23

45. Patrolling of Coastal Areas to Control Piracy. Bangladesh has 2725

kilometres coastline in the Bay of Bengal. It is very difficult on the part of the police to have an

effective watch on the coastline. Taking advantage of this situation piracy in Bangladesh’s

Maritime territories has surged rapidly, affecting its sea dependent trade. The authority in

Bangladesh maintains that ‘no such incidents of piracy have taken place in Bangladesh maritime

territories in the recent past’37. However, our Shipping Minister admitted that a few incidents of

theft have recently occurred, in which the ‘ thieves have stolen ropes of some ships by cutting

those with knives; still the govt has decided to provide the Coast Guard with two new ships to

strengthen policing. Moreover, the Navy have also been asked to be alert’. Whatever may be the

nature of incidents, if such incidents continue to take place, the freight charges of international

cargo ships might go up, as they would prefer to avoid troubled maritime territories. The recent

arms haul at Chittagong port depicts our weaknesses of the coastline security. The nexus of

pirates, gunrunners and drug traffickers cannot also be over ruled. Thus, more efforts to be

concentrated to have an effective watch on our coast line.

46. Addressing the CHT Issue in Right Perspective. Though overall situation in CHT is

under control of the security forces, yet the situation may deteriorate due to increased number of

incidents like killing, kidnapping, illegal arms dealing, drug cultivation/trafficking and other

miscreant activities. Due to the lack of job opportunity, both the tribal and non-tribal population

of the area are increasingly involving themselves in various illegal activities including armed

violence. The prime demand of JSS is complete implementation of Peace Accord. But it is

argued that some of the provisions of Peace Accord being contrary to the constitution need to be

reviewed. Besides, the JSS’s demand for complete withdrawal of security forces and removal of

Bangalee Settlers from CHT is an absurd proposition in the present context. Thus, the prime

issues of the Peace Accord like settlement of land dispute, status of Bangalee Settlers and

transfer of rest of the Subjects to Regional Council should be immediately addressed. Land

Commission should start functioning immediately. Border along CHT should be effectively

controlled to deny arms/drug trafficking and movement of cross-border insurgents. Police and

37 Julhas Ripon and Aminul, ‘Pirates Rule The Bay’, The New Age, November 03, 2003, p.1.

24

other law enforcing agencies should be made capable of handling the law and order situation in

remote areas of CHT by providing them with modern equipment and training38.

47. Rehabilitation of Insurgents, Members of Under Ground Political Parties and Extremist

Religious Parties. Due to the lack of job opportunity, surrendered insurgents and armed cadres

of under ground parties are compelled to engage themselves in various criminal activities. This

situation is more dangerous for the society because of their skill in weapon handling. Unless

efforts are taken to generate adequate employment, this segment of society is likely to be lured

by the under world elements to resort to criminal activities taking advantage of their

vulnerability39. The Govt should combine economic measures with other social welfare

measures to create a sense of social and economic justice among the insurgents and under

ground elements. Govt in cooperation with private sector and Non-Government Organisation

(NGO) can take up special initiatives to deal with the problem of unemployment. The syllabus

of Madrasha education should be reviewed to incorporate some technical and vocational

training to equip the students for meaningful employment on completion of education.

48. Curbing of Slum Development. It is alleged that the slums ‘have become the safe

den for the criminals and focal point for criminalities’. The slums are the attractive places for

the dishonest businessmen and criminal gangs for trading contraband items, drugs, weapons and

trafficking of women. Many suggest that by evicting the slums, criminal activities can

considerably be reduced. But eviction is not the solution. Because, most of the slum dwellers are

the internally migrated people who have either lost their homestead due to river erosion or have

lost everything due to flood, drought or persistent unemployment and no other places lo live and

earn their livelihood. Thus, while taking decision not to allow slum development in the heart of

the city or to relocate the existing slums, employment opportunities to be created in the vicinity

of new location and social awareness to be created so that the new locations do not become

‘criminal dens for storing illegal arms and drugs’.

38 Tawhid, Mohammad, Major, ‘Post- Conflict Situation in CHT and Prospect for Lasting Peace’ Mirpur Papers, Issue Number 9, December 2003.39 Husain, Neila, op.cit. , p.177.

25

49. Legal / Judicial Reforms. The govt should ensure that rule of law is established

without any prejudice and discrimination. Any criminal activity to be dealt without being

influenced by interested groups. ‘Whether the criminal belongs to the ruling or opposition party

should not be the concern of law enforcing agency, rather they should investigate whether the

defendant is guilty or not in the concerned crime40. The judiciary must ensure that the

disadvantaged and vulnerable section of the society i.e. the poor, women and marginalized

sections are not denied access to justice either because they are not aware of laws or they are

unable to bear the financial or social costs of justice. Supreme Court verdict on separation of

judiciary to be implemented without further delay.

50. Poverty Reductions and Employment Generation. Bangladesh is an

overpopulated disaster prone country having low resource base and extremely vulnerable

economy. The lack of remunerative employment and economic opportunities has led one third

of the youth community towards organised crime and violence. “The emergence of

Mastanocracy (local terrorism) imposing considerable ‘transaction cost’ on normal economic

activity has been singled out as a major barrier to private investment and socially secure life”41.

Thus, efforts to be taken by the govt to provide meaningful economic opportunities to the

unemployed youths, so that they do not indulge themselves in criminal activities for earning

their livelihood. NGOs should also be encouraged to expand their activities and area of

operation in connection with self-employment and poverty reduction drive.

51. Curbing of Corruption and Promoting Good Governance. Taking advantage

of prevalent corruption in administration, police and lower courts, the criminals are resorting to

violence without any fear of being prosecuted. There is a general consensus that promoting good

governance and curbing corruption can significantly improve prevailing law and order situation

and arrest armed violence. Good governance will imply depoliticisizing the state functionary

organs (especially the civil administration and law enforcing agencies), separation of power of

three branches of the govt, establishment of an efficient judicial system and not allowing the

nexus among criminals, police and politicians to develop. Above all, introduction of a truly

independent Anti-Corruption Commission and pursuing a policy of ‘zero tolerance’ in 40 Ibid . , p.177. 41 A National Strategy for Economic Growth, Poverty Reduction and Social Development, GOB, 2003, p.17.

26

combating corruption would contribute largely towards promotion of good governance.

“Improving governance and law and order and combating corruption still remained key

challenges of the Govt,”42 said the Finance Minister in a recent meeting with the donors.

52 Social Resistance and Community Policing . Since almost all segments of the

society is currently suffering from some kind of insecurity due to the violence generated by the

criminals, the people should be united to resist the same and augment the effort of the govt in

improving law and order. If people are united and committed to protect their own lives and

property then the violence generated by few armed criminals will end up in a natural death. The

civil society may also have a volunteer force of their own that should look after the safety of

lives and property of the community. However, care should be taken, so that the volunteers do

not take law in their own hand. Rather they should act as ‘force multiplier’ and put pressure on

the local administration and law-enforcing agency to improve the law and order in their own

area. In fact a strong community policing and effective social resistance can drastically reduce

the threat of violence in a particular area.

53. Avoidance of Border Skirmishes, Peaceful Settlement of Border Disputes and

Improvement of Intelligence effort. Border disputes to be amicably settled, illegal crossing

of borders to be stopped and shooting/killing of poor people along the border should be averted

through liaison and discussion at all level. Undemarcated stretches of land boundary (6.5 km)

need to be demarcated as early as possible. Alleged illegal migration should be curbed to avoid

‘push in’, ‘ push out’ debate. Incidences similar to PADUA and BARAIBARI should be

avoided at all cost. However, our border guards should remain vigilant to face any such

situation, if imposed upon. Intelligence effort of the nation should be geared up to include

organisational restructuring, improvement of efficiency and procurement of sophisticated

equipments.

54. Revival of Social Values. Our young generation to be imparted with good and

meaningful education. Basic teaching should come from the family and everybody has a

responsibility in this regard. Govt, opposition and civil society must ensure that modern and 42 The Daily Star, May 09, 2004.

27

scientific education is imparted and educational institutions are not used/affected for any

political gain. Sensor Board should ensure that violence and obscenity is not the prime

ingredient of the cinema. Govt should device a prudent policy to protect the society from

degenerated cultural invasion.

***

CHAPTER 6 - CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

CONCLUSIONS

55. The threats to the security of Bangladesh emanates from both traditional and non-

traditional sources. But the main threat is socio-economic and from consequences of such socio-

28

economic causes. However, discounting the possibility of traditional threats to our security

would be misleading and disastrous. We must not ignore the prospect of physical security

threats whatever be the source.

56. In the last few years the society has witnessed an abundant supply of illegal arms and a

sudden rise of armed violence. The availability of arms has changed the nature of violence and

made the criminals more organised. Today, violence and politics has become synonymous. The

nexus among criminals, police and politicians are mutually beneficial. Politicians are assured of

power and money, criminals can avoid arrest/prosecution and the police can reap financial

benefit in the process. On the other hand political interference, corruption, inadequacy of police

force for enforcement duty and lack of modern equipment and facilities have been identified as

the major causes of police ineffectiveness. Executive control over judiciary and inordinate delay

in delivering justice has further aggravated the situation.

57. In CHT, kidnapping and killing are a regular phenomenon through indiscriminate use of

weapons. Insurgent groups of North- Eastern states of India and Southwestern tip of Myanmar

(especially Rohingyas) are also active in the vicinity of our border. Armed cadres of under

ground leftist religious extremist parties are frequently engaged in armed violence especially in

southwestern districts. Recent arms recovery from CHT, Bogra and CUFFL jetty indicate that

Bangladesh has become a preferred route for transit in the flow of illegal weapons. Alarming

escalation of drug users has a direct bearing on the proliferation of weapons and increase in the

organised crimes. While drugs are increasingly being used to induct the youths into the criminal

syndicates, weapons are used to extort money to pay for drugs. The alleged piracy though

unfounded, if continue to take place, our competitors would spare no effort to profess our ports

as the most dangerous ports of the region. Vigilance in coastal area has become prime need of

time. Moreover, there has been an increase in border skirmishes and shooting/killing incidents

along Bangladesh-India border in recent years. Though these are non-traditional security issues,

yet over the years gained more prominence especially due to their military characteristics.

Individuals, groups, society and the nation as a whole are frequently afflicted directly or

indirectly by aforesaid ethnic, religious ideological conflicts and socio-economic violence.

29

58. Govt has taken various steps to protect the citizens from the menace of armed violence

such as: police reforms, creation of RAB, speedy trial of sensational cases, conduct of special

operation to nab the criminals, reform of legal and judicial system, etc. The law and order

situation has shown signs of improvement; many of the ‘top terrorists’ have been arrested/killed,

and the cross border insurgency has been reduced. The flow of illegal weapons through our

porous border and coastal area and the increased number of bombing incidences has now

emerged as the prime security concern of Bangladesh. However, socio-political and economic

issues have been identified as the major non-traditional military threats to the security of

Bangladesh.

RECOMMENDATIONS

59. The study has revealed certain aspects - something that threatens our security. In order to

address the threats pertaining to individual, societal and national security, following

recommendations are offered.

60. Establishment of Rule of Law.

a. Govt should immediately conduct an illegal arms collection campaign through

employing joint forces. Simultaneously, all entry points should be put under stringent

surveillance to check the influx of weapons.

b. More number of judges to be immediately appointed to dispose the arms related

cases without much delay. Capital punishment given by the lower court to notorious

criminals should be executed with bare minimum time with due approval from higher

court.

c. Govt should immediately implement the police reform to include: modernisation

of arms, equipments, vehicle and communication; provision of CCTV camera for

surveillance of KPIs/important public places and installation of Caller Identification in

30

Land Phones to address bomb threat; imparting appropriate training and making them

accountable; de-politicisation of police; etc.

d. Govt should ensure that there is none in the country who is above law. Office of

the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor should be de-politicised.

e. Community policing can largely help the people in combating armed violence

that threatens a particular community. A good example may be followed is “Lathi

Banshi Shomity” formed by the business community of Natore District Headquarters.

f. Bombing incidences should be stopped forth with. Proper investigation of recent

bombing incidences should be carried out; if required, foreign assistance may be sought.

61. Socio-Political and Economic Measures.

a. Govt in coordination with NGOs may undertake, among others, following

programmes: (1) rural infrastructure development (2) re-excavation of canal (3) creation

of self-employment opportunities through imparting skill development training and

providing micro-credit access. Insurgents of CHT, under ground cadres of left leaning

parties and extremist religious parties, and thousands of unemployed rural youths would

be benefited through aforesaid programmes. Similarly govt should undertake various

social awareness programmes and provide technical and vocational education to slum

dwellers in coordination with the NGOs.

b. Armed cadres of under ground parties to be approached to surrender and

rehabilitated. In CHT, small- scale tea gardens may be planned which is likely to absorb

a huge number of unemployed youth including ex-insurgents. Militant activities of

extremist Islamic organisations to be immediately curbed. Syllabus of ‘Kowmi

Madrasha’ education should be scrutinised and updated.

31

c. Govt should undertake specific programmes for revival of social values. Youths

should be protected from the menace of drugs and degenerated cultural invasion.

d. Cross-border insurgents should be denied access into our territory. Border

skirmishes should be avoided at all cost. Shooting and killing incidents of poor people

along the border should be stopped through negotiation.

e. Surveillance capability of the Coast Guard to be improved to guard against

illegal arms/drug trading and piracy.

62. Improvement of Intelligence Effort. To address the non-traditional military threats an

efficient intelligence network to be established. The network should incorporate sources from all

strata of the society in all the violence-infested area. A joint intelligence cell may be formed and

made responsible for data collection, analyses of incidents and forecasting of probable

events/vulnerabilities. A coordinated effort of all intelligence agencies is the prime need of time.

Hostile intelligence activities must be effectively monitored.

***

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Books and Articles

1. Buzan, Barry, People, States and Fear, Colorado: Lynne Rienner Publishers, 1991.2. Chari, P R, Perspectives on National Security in South Asia- In Search of a New Paradigm, eds, New Delhi, Monohar, 1999.3. Hafiz, M Abdul and Khan, Abdur Rab, Security of Small States, Dhaka: UPL, 1986.

32

4. Husain, Neila, ‘Small Arms and Violence in Bangladesh’, in National Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty – first Century, ed, Kabir, Mohammad Humayun, Dhaka, Academic Publishers, 2000. 5. Iftekharuzzaman, ed, South Asia’s Security- Primacy of internal Dimension, Dhaka: Academic Publishers, 1994.6. Kabir, Mohammad Humayun, National Security of Bangladesh in the 21st Century, ed, Dhaka, Academic Publishers, 2000.7. Khan, Abdur Rab and Barai, Munim Kumar, ‘Defence-Development Dilemma: The Bangladesh Perspective’ in National Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty- first Century, eds, Kabir, Mohammad Humayun, Dhaka, Academic Publishers, 2000.8. Khan, Muhammad Shahedul Anam, ‘Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty – first Century’ in National Security of Bangladesh in the Twenty- first Century, ed, Kabir, Mohammad Humayun, Dhaka, Academic Publishers, 2000.9. Khan, Rumana Samiruddin, Non-Military Security of Bangladesh: External Determinants, Dhaka, UPL, 19968.10. Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brigadier General ‘The Menace of Small Arms and Light Weapons: Challenges for Bangladesh’, paper prepared for the National Consultation on ‘Small Arms and South Asia: Challenges for Bangladesh’, Organised by BIISS and South Asia Partnership on February 12, 2001.11. Maniruzzaman, Talukder, Politics and Security of Bangladesh, Dhaka, UPL, 1994.12. Sinha, R K, Crimes Affecting state Security, New Delhi, Deep and Deep Publications, 1995.

Magazines and Journals

13. Alam, Brig A T M Zahirul and Kabir, Lieutenant Colonel A K M Humayun, ‘Security Challenges for Bangladesh in the 21st Century’, Bangladesh Army Journal, 28th Issue, January 2000.14. Azim, Kazi Mesbahul, Lieutenant Commander, ‘Non- Military Threats to Security of Bangladesh’Mirpur Papers, December 2001, p.3.15. Choudhhury Ishfaq Ilahi, ‘Security Challenges of South Asian Countries in the Coming Decade: An Overview’, BIISS Journal, Vol 21, Number 1, January 2004.16. Khan, Abdur Rab, ‘Interfacing Traditional and Non-Traditional Security in South Asia’, BIISS Journal, Vol 22, Number 4, October 2001.17. Tawhid, Mohammad, Major, ‘Post- Conflict Situation in CHT and Prospect for Lasting Peace’ Mirpur Papers, Issue Number 9, December 2003.

Newspapers

18. ‘Donors concerned’, The Daily Star, May 09, 2004 19. Editorial, The Bangladesh Observer, April 12, 2003.20. Editorial, The Independent, April 04, 2004.21. Haq, M. Emdadul, Prof ‘International Drug Traffickers and Security Concerns in Bangladesh’, The Daily Star, December 06, 2003.

33

22. Julhas Ripon and Islam, Aminul, ‘Pirates rule the Bay’, The New Age, November 03, 2003.23. Khan, Shahedul Anam, Brig Gen (Retd), ‘Chittagong arms haul: some queries’, The Daily Star, April 05, 2004.24. Rahman, S M Matiur, ‘Crushing Crime Network’, The Independent, March 09, 2004.25. Rehman, Shafique, Jai Jai Din, July 08, 2003.26. Yussouf, M. M, ‘Administration of Judicial System in Bangladesh’, The Daily Star, January 05, 2003.27. Zamir, Muhammad, ‘Arms smuggling must be stopped’, The Daily Star, April 01, 2004.

Discussion

28. Discussion with District and Session Judge, Sylhet, March 01, 2004.29. Discussion with Islam, Shamsul, DIG, Special branch of Police, dhaka, July 21, 2004.

Internet

30. Arrow i Ltd, http://www.arrowi.co.uk/Piracy.html.

Official Publications

31. A National Strategy for Economic Growth, Poverty Reduction and Social Development, GOB, 2003.

34

Appendix-I

THE LIST OF CAPTURED ARMS AND AMMUNITIONS FROM CUFFL JETTY

(On Night 1 st and 2 nd April 2004)

Serial Weapons, Ammunitions,

Explosives and Equipments

Quantity Remarks

1 SMG 7.62 mm, Type 56.1 692 NOs Country of Origin

Not known

2 SMG Magazine, Type 56.1 2792 NOs

3 SMG 7.62 mm, Type 56.2 600 NOs

4 SMG Magazine, Type 56.2 2400 NOs

5 Semi-Automatic Rifle Uzi 400 NOs

6 Semi-Automatic Rifle Uzi

Magazine

800 NOs

7 Tommy gun 100 NOs

8 Tommy gun Magazine 400 NOs

9 Rocket Launcher (RL), 40mm 150 NOs

10 Sight of RL 150 NOs

11 Rocket Launching Tube 2000 NOs

12 Rocket 840 NOs

13 Ammunition of SMG 7.62 mm 7,39,680 Rounds

14 Ammunition of Tommy gun 4,0.000 Rounds

15 Hand Grenade (t-82.2) 25,020 Rounds

16 Wireless Set 02 NOs

17 Cover Box of RL 01 Box

18 Bandolier 01 Box

19 Sling of various Weapons 01 Box

Source: Weekly Purnima, April 07, 2004.

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Appendix-II

STATISTICS OF KILLING/KIDNAPPING INCIDENTS AT CHT

(From 01 January to 30 June 2004)

Serial Month District

Killed Wounded Kidnapped

Tribal Bangalee Tribal Bangalee Tribal Bangalee

1 January

2004

Khagrachari 02

Rangamati 06 04 03 11

Bandarban

2 February

2004

Khagrachari 06 02 05

Rangamati 01 10

Bandarban 01 01

3 March

2004

Khagrachari

Rangamati 02 01 02 08 08

Bandarban 01 03

4 April

2004

Khagrachari 02 01 14

Rangamati 01 04 03 03 01

Bandarban 01

5 May

2004

Khagrachari 02 07 04 03

Rangamati 03 12

Bandarban 01 04 04

6 June

2004

Khagrachari 02 05 04 02 01

Rangamati 01 04 03

Bandarban

Total 21 03 34 31 69 11

Source: Army Headquarters.

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Appendix – III

STATISTISTICS OF CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES

Year Murder Dacoity Mugging/Arson Riot Women/ Oppression

Assault on Police

1999 3710 1018 1959 4019 8710 419

2000 3386 845 1157 2072 10535 264

2001 3678 758 1265 2161 12958 344

2002 3503 963 1397 1176 18455 281

2003 3471 949 1170 890 20242 271

Source: Police Headquarters, Dhaka, Police Week 2004 report July 21, 2004.

Enclosure-IIIa: Looking back at 2003 : A year of rising crimes, The Daily Star, January 2004.

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Appendix – IV

LIST OF UNDER GROUND LEFTIST POLITICAL PARTIES

Serial Name of the Party

Location of Office

Name of the Leaders Activities

1. Purba Banglar Communist Party (ML-Jano Judha)

Khulna Abdur Rashid Malitha (Tapan) Ripon Ahmed (Shoeb)BDR Altaf (Recently Killed)

a. Active in Khuna, Bagherhat, Chuadanga, Jhenida, Jessoreb. Fallower of Charu Majumdar of Nakshalbaric. Have links with Janajudha of Kolkata

2 Purba Banglar Communist Party (ML)

Khulna Mofakkhar HossainAbdur Rashid Tapu, (Killed on 20 May 2004)Rajab Bhangri

a. Active in Khuna, Bagherhat, Chuadanga. b. Involved in killing police and extortion.c. Presently less active.

3. Purba Banglar Communist Party (ML-Lal Pataka)

Khulna Dr Mizanur Rahman (Tutul) Abdus Salam Tapur

a. Started as Communist Anushilon Kendra.b. Active in Rajshahi Beltc. Have cooperation with ML Jano Judha

4. Purba Banglar Communist Party (Maobadi)

Khulna Mofiz (Nasim) a. Active in Khulna Belt b. Claim them as pure Nakshalite. c. Have established link with Maobadi of Nepal.

5. New Biplobi Communist Party

Khulna Monoranjan (Mrinal) Debu arrestedAbul Khair

Active in Khulna, Shatkhira, Jessore.

6. Bangladesher Sharbahara Party

Barisal Mamun Active in Faridpur, Jessore and Khulna

7. Purba Bangla Sharbahara Party

Sirajgonj Anwar Kaibr a. Active in Sirajgonj, Natore, Bogra and Naogaonb. Most Active Under Ground Party.c. Looted Arms from Police Outpost.

Source: Daily Prothom Alo, August 04-06, 2004.Discussion with Shamsul Islam, DIG Special Branch of Police, Dhaka on July 21, 2004.

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Appendix – V

LIST OF EXTREMIST RELIGIOUS PARTY ACTIVE IN BANGLADESH

Serial Name of Party

Location of Office

Known Leaders Activities and Area of Operation

1 Islami Biplobi Porishad

Daksmin Bashabo, Dhaka.

Moulana Abdul ZabberMr. Humayun Kabir

a. Conducted Meeting at Dhaka, Comilla and Sylhet.b. 10 Members were arrested from Comilla & Sherpur

2. Hizbut Tahrir

Elephant Road, Dhaka

Mr. Mohiuddin AhmedDr Syed Golam Mawla

a. Arranged Seminar at Dhaka, Comilla and Sylhet

3. Hizbut Tawhid

Uttara, Dhaka Mr Bayezid Khan Ponni (arrested)

a. Active in Barisal, Feni, Kushtia, Madaripur, Meherpur, & Narayangonj. b. Carries out Militant Training.

4. Harkat Ul Jihad Al Islam(HUJI)

Chittagong Mufti Shafiqur RahmanMufti Mohammad Hannan (absconding)Moulana IzharSheikh Farid

a. Have Training camps at Cox’s Bazaar and CHT.b. Accused for planting Bomb at the Venue of Ramna Batatmul and Udichi programme

5. Jamatul Mujahedin

Not known Dr Asadullah Ghalib a. Active in Rajshahi, Natore, Jaypur hat Bogra, Nowabgonj, b. Most active party.c. Many Members arrested with bombs/explosives.

6. Shadat-E-Al- Hikma

Not Known Syed Kawser Hossain Siddiqui

a. Activities disbanded from 09 February 2003.b. 5 Persons were arrested from Rajshahi before disbandment.

7. Jagrota Muslim Janata Bangladesh

Not Known Abdur Rahman (Bangla Bhai)

a. Established at Dhaka in 1998.b. Active in Naogaon, Rajshahi, Noabgonj, nature, Bogra, Chuadanga c. Main activity is to combat the atrocity of Sharbahara Party.d. So far killed 07 Sharbahara Cadre.

Source: Discussion with Shamsul Islam, DIG, Special Branch of Police, Dhaka on July 21, 2004. ‘Harkatul Jihad now active’, Daily Prothom Alo, August 16, 2004.

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Appendix – VI

STATE OF MAJOR BOMB BLAST INCIDENTS

Date Place killed Injured RemarksJanuary 1999 Chatak, Sylhet 03 Not

KnownBomb Blast in house of Mr. Manik, MP

20 January 1999 Paltan Maidan Dhaka

04 50 Explosion at CPB Rally

06 March 1999 Udichi Function, Jessore

10 100 Attack on Cultural Programme

08 October 1999 Ahmedia Mosque, Khulna

07 Not Known

Explosion at Mosque

September 2001 Shalna, Sunamgonj 04 Many Bomb Blast at Metting of Suranjit Sen Gupta

14 April 2001 Ramna Batmul Dhaka

09 30 Explosion at Pahela Baishakh Programme

28 September 2002 Sathkhira Stadium 05 Many Stadium 08 December 2002 Cinema Hall,

Mymensing18 200 Bomb Blast at Cinema

Hall12 January 2004 Mazar of Hazrat

Shah Jalal (R) 05 Many Grenade Blast during

Yearly ‘Orash’21 May 2004 Mazar of Hazrat

Shah Jalal (R) 03 70 Grenade Blast during visit

of British High Commissioner

05 August 2004 Cinema Hall, Sylhet 01 Many Time Bomb explosion in two Cinema Hall.

07 August 2004 In front of a Hotel, Sylhet

01 30 Grenade attack

Source: Anisur Rahman, ‘Terrorism in Bangladesh’, Weekend Independent, September 21, 2001.

Courier Report, ‘Blood and Tears at Mymensingh’, Dhaka Courier, December 13, 2002. Prothom Alo report, ‘Bomb Blast’, Daily Prothom Alo, August 08, 2004.

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