Terrorists exploiting peace talks for criminal activities: Army chief

BANDARBAN CORRESPONDENT

Army Chief General SM Shafiuddin Ahmed has declared that joint forces will thwart terrorists’ attempts to disrupt peace in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT).

He made this statement while speaking to reporters at the parade ground of Bandarban Cantonment on Sunday (April 7).

Earlier, the Army Chief visited Ruma and Thanchi upazilas to assess the situation following a terrorist attack on a Sonali Bank branch and the subsequent kidnapping of the branch manager. He later held discussions with army personnel stationed in the region.

The army chief confirmed that operations in the hills have begun according to plan and that visible actions will soon be evident. He expressed confidence in the forces’ ability to implement whatever measures are necessary to protect the security and sovereignty of Bangladesh, in accordance with the Prime Minister’s directive.

General Shafiuddin Ahmed revealed that security forces conducted a successful operation on a terrorist hideout the previous night, seizing two weapons. The ownership of the weapons is still under investigation. Efforts are underway to locate additional terrorist hideouts, and the ongoing operation in the hills involves collaboration between RAB, BGB, the army, and various intelligence agencies.

The army chief acknowledged that there was initial hope for a peaceful resolution through talks. However, he emphasized that the terrorists have exploited these talks to resume unrest, posing a significant threat to Bangladesh.  He affirmed that necessary steps are being taken to eradicate terrorist activities and that there is no place for terrorists within Bangladesh.