The army has stated that delays in responding to incidents are often unavoidable because troops are only deployed after other law enforcement agencies have been called, which can result in critical minutes being lost.

Colonel Shafiqul Islam, of the Military Operations Directorate at Army Headquarters, spoke to reporters about the force’s response to mob violence, emphasizing that the army always acts once formally requested.

He explained that police or other agencies are usually sent first to handle incidents. “If initial efforts fail, the army is then called in. By the time approval is granted and troops are mobilized, the situation may have already worsened,” he said. He added that any perceived delays are usually due to receiving information late or the distance to the nearest army camp, which can be up to 20 kilometers away.

Colonel Shafiqul stressed that maintaining law and order is not solely the army’s responsibility. While the army can detain individuals and hand them over to police, it cannot impose judicial punishment. He urged all stakeholders to work together, noting that coordination has already begun and can further improve law and order.

Regarding recent incidents involving freedom fighters, he said the army responded immediately after reports were received and ensured the situation was controlled. He reaffirmed the force’s “zero tolerance” toward mob violence, stating, “There is no instance where we were asked to intervene and did not, or where a mob formed and the army took no action.”

On the spread of misinformation, Colonel Shafiqul criticized groups that circulate false claims about the army on social media, calling it “undesirable and embarrassing.” He highlighted the importance of accurate reporting to maintain public trust.

The colonel clarified that the army has no involvement in the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union election and that rumors linking the force to the national election are unfounded, though preparations continue for any future directives from the Election Commission. He also dismissed claims that the army has not cooperated with the commission on disappearances, stating that all required assistance has been provided.

Colonel Shafiqul outlined recent army operations, including recovering illegal weapons, arresting criminals, assisting in violent clashes in Dhaka, Chattogram, and Nilphamari, and conducting nationwide anti-drug and anti-smuggling drives. Operations in the Chattogram Hill Tracts also led to the arrest of armed group members, and the army helped intercept unauthorized border crossings.

Beyond security operations, the army has supported firefighters during blazes, dismantled hospital broker rings in Dhaka, and shut down a factory producing counterfeit cosmetics in Munshiganj.

He concluded by reaffirming the army’s commitment to protecting lives, property, and national sovereignty. “Following directives from the chief of army staff, our personnel are working closely with ministries, law enforcement, local authorities, the media, and citizens to maintain stability,” Colonel Shafiqul said.