Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has alleged that the Arakan Army relies on narcotics trafficking as its primary source of income.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday (September 9) after a meeting of the law and order advisory committee at the Secretariat, he warned that a surge in narcotics poses a grave threat to Bangladesh’s youth. 

He said, “Large quantities of drugs are entering the country, although seizures have also increased. New forms of narcotics are emerging, and hotels are among the places where they are circulating. We have yet to bring the situation fully under control.”

The adviser said that the Arakan Army’s operations are sustained by the drug trade. 

“They survive by selling drugs. Their main income comes from narcotics. They have seized control of Myanmar’s border areas. Recently, they have shown some interest in agriculture, which could reduce the drug flow. Still, every day, hundreds of thousands of yaba pills are being seized,” he added.

The adviser expressed deep concern, warning that if the drug trade is not curbed, the future generation risks being destroyed.

When asked about the ongoing Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) election, Jahangir Alam Chowdhury noted that discussions had been held with the university’s vice chancellor. 

He said the polls, though not identical to national elections, serve as a democratic model. "Those voting are educated, as are the presiding and polling officers. This process is an important example for the country," he added.

SMS/