US Sanctions on RAB: Rab works in line with law, constitution

Rapid Action Battalion is performing duties in accordance with the constitution and rules of Bangladesh, its Director General Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun has said.

He made the comment while addressing reporters at Barguna Patharghata launch ghat yesterday, after the United States on Friday imposed sanctions on Rab and seven of its top former and current officials.

Replying to a query about the international community's criticism, the Rab chief said, "When we work, our activities are investigated by the executive magistrate through the judicial system. The police also investigate it. But we do not investigate. If any necessity arises after investigation, then a case is registered."

The case is investigated later, he said adding that in the judicial system, investigation of the case goes to the court and a verification is conducted.

"Our activities are accepted after all the decisions come in," he said.

"Besides, we have independent media, we have civil society. Every issue is thoroughly scrutinised from all angles. There is no chance of violating human rights here. Everything is being organised in the light of law and order," he said.

The executive order 13818 to which Rab has been subjected to by the US is titled "Blocking the Property of Persons Involved in Serious Human Rights Abuse or Corruption".