DHAKA: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday opined that the success of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) in curbing terrorist activities has reestablished trust and comfort among general people.

She also announced to take initiatives for strengthening RAB, considered as the elite force of Bangladesh Police.

The premier came up with the remarks while addressing a ceremony marking the 11th founding anniversary of RAB at its headquarters in the city this morning.

The premier said, “RAB have been continuing their operations to curb the ongoing violent activities. Top militant leaders and members of various militant organizations have been arrested and brought to justice that led to shatter the organizational structure of these elements.”

"We are successful in preventing terrorism. The success in curbing terrorism has returned hope among people. Country’s image has been brightened to the world stage," she added.

The PM further said, “The elite force has been enriched with hi-tech equipments and modern information-technologies to curb crime as well as arrest criminals. Required vehicles, including two helicopters, have been allocated to RAB aiming to boost the operational strength of the force.”

Citing various RAB operations, she said, the force has been conducting effective drives to curb illegal VoIP business and stopping evil efforts of dubious business cycle, smuggling, counterfeit currency and passports.

People have got relief due to the RAB operated anti-adulteration mobile courts.

“RAB, in its several successful operations, recovered huge amount of illegal arms and ammunitions that played roles in establishing the rule of law in the country and curbing crimes as well," she added.

But people unaware about the success of RAB as these did not get importance in news media, the Prime Minister alleged, terming it unfortunate.

“I do not know whether it is the weakness of journalism or the news does not deserve importance,” remarked the Prime Minister.

“RAB is now really an elite force. They have been equipped with hi-tech devices. But the criminals and militants are also using latest technologies. So, RAB need further modernization,” she stated.

“Our government will do everything required to make the force more modern and time befitting," she added.

Citing different successes attained by the force, Sheikh Hasina said, “Several programs will be taken to increase the number of battalions and reforming their organizational infrastructure. We have allocated permanent place for 11 RAB battalions.”

A permanent place has been given for RAB training center in Gazipur, she added.

Regarding the BNP-Jamaat’s violent political movement, the premier said that she has ever seen such sort of movement. “We also had enforced ant-government movements. But burning general people and destructing the country's resources can not be a movement.

The RAB will take actions to make the country free from the prevailing violence, she hoped.

Later,  Sheikh Hasina unveiled the plaques and laid foundation stones of nine buildings including staff training complex, office buildings for RAB-5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11 and 12.

RAB Director General Benazir Ahmed, in his welcome speech, commented, “The elite force, consisting of the members of various forces, has become a model to the world. RAB have been working to meet the needs of society as well as the country.”

According to him, RAB has earned the trust of people for their competence and bravery. The country has needed the force.

Benazir Ahmed also sought prime minister’s assistance to strengthen the elite force.

Industries minister Amir Hossain Amu, state minister for home Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and Inspector General of Police (IGP) AKM Shahidul Islam, among others, were present at the event.

BDST: 1209 HRS, MAR 28, 2015