BGB members no longer involved in businesses
Says its DG
Director General of Border Guard Bangladesh Maj Gen Abul Hossain yesterday said BGB officers and troops are no longer involved in businesses such as bank, border tourism and markets belonging to the force.
“Now, our troops or officers are not involved in any businesses. These are conducted by retired troops, officers and civilians,” he said.
He said this while responding to a query regarding the steps he has taken in line with the higher court recommendation that the force refrains from commercial ventures as well as reduces distance between BGB officers and soldiers.
The BGB chief said the distance between the leaders and the troops had been reduced to a great extent. “We are aware of the matter…,” he said at a briefing at the BGB Pilkhana Headquarters.
The erstwhile BDR's commercial venture, “Operation Dal-Bhat”, came to the fore during the verdict delivery in the 2009 BDR carnage case by the High Court last year and lower court earlier.
Most of the low-ranked BDR members in late 2008 had a speculation that their superiors were depriving them of their rightful share of profit incurred from the “Operation Dal-Bhat”, launched in 2007.
This resentment, blended with their age-old discontent about being led by army officers on deputation, led to the February 25-26 mutiny and carnage.
During the briefing, Maj Gen Abul Hossain said tough action would be taken against any one if found involved in corruption.
He said they have already taken stern action against some members. He, however, could not immediately provide the exact number of the BGB members who already faced punishment.
Replying to another query, he said the BGB alone cannot curb the smuggling of Yaba. It requires a concerted effort from other law enforcers and the society.
Since Myanmar is the source country, Yaba smuggling would largely be contained once the 271-km road along its border is constructed and lights are set up there, he added.