The Police Headquarters has clarified Inspector General of Police (IGP) Md Ali Hossain Fakir’s remarks on "crossfire", stating that he used the term literally to describe strict law enforcement rather than suggesting extrajudicial killings or punishment outside the judicial process.
In a clarification issued on Monday, police headquarters stated that it had taken note of media reports and headlines regarding the IGP’s remarks made earlier in the day at the inauguration of Community Bank’s Islamic banking branch in Chawkbazar, Dhaka.
The clarification was issued to address public confusion, it said.
According to the statement, the IGP reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to taking effective action against drug dealers, criminals, extortionists and others who threaten public safety.
The statement noted that Bangladesh Police, which serves as the country’s principal law enforcement agency, is tasked with preventing crime, arresting offenders, maintaining public order, and protecting the lives and property of the people.
It added that police personnel sometimes face direct resistance and attacks from criminals, organised groups and individuals who defy the law while carrying out their duties.
Police headquarters reported that 176 attacks on police personnel occurred during the first 10 months of this year while officers were maintaining law and order, arresting criminals, preventing illegal activities, and performing official duties. These attacks resulted in the deaths of four police personnel and left 370 others seriously injured.
The clarification also cited the Penal Code of 1860, the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1898, and the Police Act of 1861 as laws that recognize the right of police officers to self-defense.
Police Headquarters also addressed confusion surrounding the Inspector-General of Police's remarks regarding journalists at the same event. Officials stated that he had not intended to make sweeping remarks about journalists and that the comments were made inadvertently.
At the event, the IGP stated: “If we beat people with batons, you will call us fascist police. If we remain silent, you will call us weak police. So, I must be given an environment to work in. We must be empowered.”
He also said police could resort to “crossfire” if the government authorised it.
Following the remarks, the Human Rights Support Society (HRSS) expressed concern and condemned the statement. The organisation called on the government to clarify the IGP’s comments and state its position on extrajudicial killings.
Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has also condemned the remarks, demanding their withdrawal and accountability for the Inspector General of Police (IGP). The organization further called for accountability regarding statements that contradict the government’s declared position against extrajudicial killings.
In its clarification, police headquarters stated that the Bangladesh Police remained committed to protecting people’s lives and property and upholding the rule of law while performing its duties professionally and impartially, with respect for human rights.
Why it matters
The clarification addresses intense public and organizational concern regarding law enforcement accountability and human rights standards in Bangladesh.