Zakir Hossain from Dhaka
Bangladesh’s Parliament has passed a law to replace the country’s elite security unit Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) with a new force named the Special Response Brigade (SRB), marking a major restructuring of the country’s security apparatus.
The bill was passed on Wednesday (September 10), after approval by lawmakers. The move comes as part of the government’s efforts to reform law enforcement agencies following years of criticism surrounding the functioning of RAB.
The RAB, formed in 2004, has been Bangladesh’s specialised force involved in counter-terror operations, crime control and major security operations. However, the unit has faced allegations of human rights violations, including claims of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances, allegations that authorities have denied.
The newly created SRB will take over the responsibilities of RAB, with the government saying the restructuring aims to create a more accountable and modern security force. The new law will define the structure, responsibilities and operational framework of the SRB.
The decision to replace RAB comes after growing calls for reforms in Bangladesh’s security institutions, particularly following political changes in the country. The force had also faced international scrutiny, including sanctions imposed by the United States on some RAB officials over alleged human rights abuses.
The Bangladesh government is expected to announce further details about the transition from RAB to SRB, including the transfer of personnel, resources and operational responsibilities.