Cabinet approves criminal investigation powers for APBn

The Cabinet Division on Monday approved the draft Armed Police Battalion Act, 2026, allowing the specialised police unit to investigate criminal offences.

In connection with the Armed Police Battalion’s criminal investigations, special trial courts and summary courts can also be set up under the draft law, said a Cabinet Division press release.

The draft law was approved at the 18th meeting of the Cabinet Division chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The meeting was held at the Secretariat.

With the ruling party commanding convincing majority in the parliament, the draft law is all but certain to get parliamentary approval.

The Cabinet Division press release states that the Armed Police Battalion Act, 2026 would replace the Armed Police Battalions Ordinance, 1979. It has been updated to make it time-worthy and more people-friendly.

An additional Inspector General of Police would control and oversee operations at APBn, the release says.

The force will ensure security of government-declared very important persons (VIP) and key installations.

It will also take actions against people involved in terrorism, drug abuse, human trafficking, rape and crimes against humanity, while assisting other law enforcement agencies in ensuring public safety, the release said, citing the draft law.