APBN Empowered to Investigate Cyber Crimes

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Home Affairs has unanimously recommended the passage of a new bill granting expanded powers to the Armed Police Battalion (APBN) to investigate cybercrime, terrorism, organized crime, human trafficking, enforced disappearances, and land grabbing. Member of Parliament Zainul Abedin (Barishal-3) presented the report on the "Armed Police Battalion (APBN) Bill, 2026" during the session of the 13th National Parliament on Monday (September 07), following the committee's review on September 6.

The proposed legislation repeals the Armed Police Battalions Ordinance of 1979 and establishes a updated legal framework for APBN's organizational structure, responsibilities, powers, and judicial mechanisms. Under the new provisions, units including the Special Security and Protection Battalion (SPBN) can establish dedicated cyber cells, holding cells, evidence lockers, and interrogation rooms. An officer holding the rank of Additional Inspector General of Police will head the unit with administrative and operational powers.

In addition to safeguarding public order, VIP security, and airport safety, APBN officers ranked Sub-Inspector and above are authorized to investigate criminal cases assigned by courts, the government, or the Inspector General of Police. Any arrested suspects or seized evidence must be immediately handed over to the nearest police station alongside an official report.

The bill establishes two internal judicial bodies—the Special Armed Police Battalion Court and the Summary Armed Police Battalion Court. The Special Court can hand down up to life imprisonment for offences such as mutiny or assault on superiors, while the Summary Court can issue up to three years' imprisonment for misconduct or desertion. Members sentenced to over 90 days in prison will face automatic dismissal. Unlawful disclosure of information to media outlets without prior permission remains strictly prohibited.
//DBTech/JNO/SME/MIS//