Blocking roads and highways negatively impacts the country’s economy and all sectors. The army always makes every effort to keep roads clear. There is a concerted effort to remove blockades as quickly as possible.

Colonel Md. Shafiqul Islam, Staff Officer of the Military Operations Directorate at Army Headquarters, said this during a press briefing held at Dhaka Cantonment on Thursday. He stated that in the past, the army has brought 137 risky situations under control in industrial zones to ensure security. It has cleared 31 major roads from blockades.

Colonel Shafiqul Islam also said that since August 5 of last year, the army has arrested 7,822 individuals. In the past two months alone, they have managed 232 incidents of unrest. These include 37 related to educational institutions, 24 involving government agencies and offices, 76 political disputes, and 95 other incidents.

He added that the army is engaged in maintaining communal harmony in the country and ensuring the overall security of foreign diplomats and embassies. Additionally, it is effectively carrying out its responsibilities to maintain peace and order in the Chittagong Hill Tracts and to secure the FDMN (Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals) camp areas in Cox’s Bazar.

In response to a question, the army officer said the army is not facing any obstacles in exercising magistracy powers. These powers are being used as needed. Once suspects are arrested, they are handed over to other law enforcement agencies, and the army does not play a role in the judicial process. He emphasized that the army is not disturbed by rumors and continues to serve the nation under government directives with unity, integrity, justice, determination, and patience.

Referring to a recent event, Shafiqul Islam mentioned that the army intervened during a long procession of black-flag bearers under the “March for Gaza” campaign. However, he clarified that carrying black flags does not automatically indicate someone is a militant, and the army remains vigilant regarding such matters.

Regarding the Army Chief's visits to Russia and Croatia, he stated that these were routine trips to friendly nations. The Army Chief met with several high-ranking officials and visited various military industries. He believes that these visits will strengthen military cooperation and friendly relations.