EC Sanaullah urges emphasis on seizing illegal weapons before the elections

Brigadier (Retd.) Abul Fazal Mohammad Sanaullah, former Election Commissioner, has emphasised the urgent need to recover illegal firearms ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Elections in Bangladesh. Speaking on Tuesday, 6 January, at a law enforcement coordination meeting held at the Chittagong Circuit House, he warned that unchecked possession of such weapons could severely compromise electoral security.

“Prior to the elections, it is essential that no illegal arms are in circulation. The recovery of these weapons is a matter of national urgency,” he stated, addressing members of the law enforcement task force.

Brigadier Sanaullah highlighted that a significant portion of weapons and ammunition looted from police stations and units during the political upheaval of 5 August 2024 remain unaccounted for. According to official records, 15% of looted firearms and 30% of ammunition are yet to be recovered, despite ongoing efforts.

Brigadier Sanaullah also drew attention to security concerns relating to Rohingya refugee camps. He urged law enforcement authorities to ensure that all camps are properly secured and monitored. He stressed the need for heightened vigilance along both land and maritime borders to prevent criminals from exploiting these vulnerabilities.

“This election is of immense national significance. If it is not conducted smoothly, the consequences will affect everyone,” he warned, urging immediate action to neutralise potential threats.

The looting followed the mass public uprising on 5 August 2024, which resulted in the fall of the authoritarian Awami League government. During the unrest, police stations, outposts, and other law enforcement units were attacked, vandalised, and set ablaze, leading to the loss of thousands of firearms and large quantities of ammunition.

Authorities continue to focus on tracing and recovering the missing arms to ensure the forthcoming elections proceed in a secure and peaceful environment. The Election Commission and security forces are coordinating closely to prevent any misuse of these weapons that could jeopardise public safety or the democratic process.