Wednesday marks a significant step in bolstering court security and prisoner transport safety in Bangladesh as the United States Department of Justice officially transferred five specialised prisoner vehicles to the Government of Bangladesh Prisons Directorate.
This initiative, funded by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Counter Terrorism (CT) and facilitated by the US Department of Justice’s International Criminal Investigative Training Assistance Program (ICITAP), underscores a commitment to enhancing security measures for handling high-threat and terrorist prisoners during legal proceedings.
The turnover ceremony, held at the Keraniganj Central Jail, symbolises a collaborative effort to fortify the infrastructure necessary for conducting terrorism trials securely and effectively. These vehicles, equipped with state-of-the-art security features, are tailored to ensure the safe transportation of prisoners, safeguarding the welfare of court staff, plaintiffs, defendants, detainees, and observers alike.
"This initiative represents a crucial partnership between the United States and Bangladesh in strengthening counterterrorism efforts and ensuring the safety and security of all involved in the judicial process," stated Michael Hintz, Law Enforcement Assistance Attache for ICITAP. "By providing these specialized vehicles, we aim to support the Government of Bangladesh in maintaining a secure environment during terrorism trials, thereby upholding justice and the rule of law."
The event was attended by distinguished guests including Helen LaFave, Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy, Brigadier General ASM Anisul Haque, Inspector General of Prisons (IGP), Secretary Md Mashiur Rahman NDC Senior Secretary of Security Services Division (Ministry of Home Affairs). Their presence underscored the significance of this initiative in fostering bilateral cooperation and advancing counterterrorism efforts.
"The United States is proud to support Bangladesh's commitment to strengthening its judicial infrastructure," stated Helen LaFave. "These vehicles, equipped with advanced security features, will enhance the safety and efficiency of transporting prisoners involved in terrorism trials, thereby contributing to a more secure and resilient justice system."
IGP Haque expressed gratitude for the partnership with the United States, emphasising the vehicles' crucial role in ensuring the safety of all involved in the judicial process.
"This assistance will bolster our capacity to manage high-threat prisoners and conduct trials securely, reinforcing our efforts to uphold the rule of law and combat terrorism."
