Home minister directs BGB to intensify anti-smuggling, push-in efforts

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed today (20 July) directed Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) to strengthen vigilance against illegal infiltration, push-ins, drug and arms smuggling, human trafficking and other cross-border crimes.

During his first visit to the BGB headquarters in Pilkhana since taking office, the minister received a briefing on the force’s operations, training, administration and border management before addressing BGB personnel.

He instructed members to perform their duties with patriotism, integrity and professionalism while maintaining discipline, the chain of command and neutrality. He also urged greater use of modern technology and intelligence, reliance on verified information, stronger engagement with border communities and continued humanitarian support during disasters.

Speaking to reporters after the visit, Salahuddin Ahmed said the government would expedite measures to increase BGB’s manpower and equip the force with modern vehicles, weapons, equipment and technology, while also improving administrative infrastructure, expanding hospital facilities and recruiting more doctors and nurses.

Praising BGB’s role in preventing drug trafficking, arms smuggling and other cross-border crimes, he said the government had decided to use the force’s dog squad to support enforcement of the Narcotics Control Act until a dedicated unit is fully staffed and trained.

The minister also lauded BGB’s rescue and relief operations during the recent floods, saying its humanitarian role would be further expanded.

On the Myanmar border, he said the government is considering constructing barbed-wire fencing along a 109-kilometre stretch in view of the ongoing conflict across the border, activities of armed groups and drug smuggling risks. Mine detection equipment has already been supplied to BGB to prevent landmine accidents, he added.

On the issue of push-ins, Salahuddin Ahmed said that if any individual is found to be a Bangladeshi citizen, their return will be handled through bilateral and diplomatic channels after nationality verification.

Responding to a question, he said additional honours or incentives for BGB personnel who played an exceptional role in preventing recent push-ins would be considered alongside the force’s annual bravery awards.