PM asks RAB to fight drugs

FT ONLINE

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today directed the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) to continue its drive against drugs to save the country and children from its (drugs) clutches side by side with maintaining law and order to keep up development spree.

"We've earned huge successes by conducting drives against militancy. So I will like to request the elite force members to continue its operation against drugs like militancy," she told the 14th founding anniversary function of RAB at its headquarters in Kurmitola here this morning.

The prime minister said those who make, sell, transport and consume drugs are equally guilty. "So actions will have to be taken keeping this in mind," she said.

Sheikh Hasina said the RAB has already achieved successes by conducting drives against drugs. "I want these operations to continue to protect our country and children from the clutches of drugs," she said.

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and RAB Director General Benazir Ahmed also spoke on the occasion.

A video documentary on the RAB drives against militancy, terrorism, drugs and kidnapping was screened at the function.

Besides, another documentary was screened on the present peaceful situation of the Sundarbans following the surrender of 217 forest bandits of 20 "dasyu bahinis" (bandit forces) who once established a reign of terror in the world's largest mangrove forest.

Ministers, PM's advisers, parliament members, the chiefs of three armed services, high civil and military officials were present at the function.

Earlier on her arrival at the venue, the prime minister was given a guard of honour by the smartly turned out contingent of the elite force.

At the function, the prime minister laid the foundation stone of RAB Headquarters Complex and inaugurated Prerana Dhara, a memorial built in memory of the RAB members who sacrificed their lives while performing duty.