The United States has strengthened Bangladesh’s court security with the official handover of five specialised prisoner transportation vehicles to the Bangladesh Prisons Directorate.
This initiative, funded by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Counter Terrorism and facilitated by the US Department of Justice’s International Criminal Investigative Training Assistance Program (ICITAP), aims to enhance the safety and security of high-threat and terrorist prisoners during legal proceedings, said a press release.
The handover ceremony at Keraniganj Central Jail marked a collaborative effort to improve the infrastructure necessary for securely conducting terrorism trials. The vehicles are equipped with state-of-the-art security features, ensuring the safe transport of prisoners and safeguarding court staff, plaintiffs, defendants, detainees, and observers.
"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 Attaché for ICITAP. "By providing these specialised 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."
Distinguished guests at the event included Helen LaFave, Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy, Brigadier General ASM Anisul Haque, Inspector General of Prisons (IGP), and Secretary Md Mashiur Rahman, Senior Secretary of Security Services Division (Ministry of Home Affairs).
Their presence highlighted 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."
