Americans can train RAB if the force has shortcomings: Foreign minister

Foreign minister AK Abdul Momen
File photo

Foreign minister AK Abdul Momen said the Americans can train up the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) afresh if the elite force has shortcomings in discharging their duties.

The minister made the remark on Tuesday morning while briefing the newsmen after paying tribute to the portrait of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Dhanmondi 32 in the capital to mark the 21st founding anniversary of Bangabandhu Foundation.

On 10 December, the United States of America imposed sanctions on six former and current officials of Bangladesh’s elite force Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) for human rights abuse.

Bangladesh government, however, rejected the allegations of human rights abuse by the RAB officials.

The foreign minister said, "RAB is discharging their duties with utmost sincerity and honesty. That is why RAB has an acceptability to everyone in Bangladesh. We also have the scope to work. We must take action if the law is violated anywhere."

Citing the incident of seven murder case in Narayangnj, the foreign minister said, "RAB abused their power in one or two cases and they were brought to book."

"Americans taught them (RAB) how to take action. If they have any lacking in dealing with criminal activities, we will urge the Americans to train them up afresh so that no violation is taken place."