Quader: We are safer than most countries

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said Bangladesh has fared better compared to many other countries that were affected by terrorism and militancy.

Obaidul, also Awami League general secretary, made the comment after paying a visit to the old site of Holey Artisan Bakery that suffered the worst terror attack in Bangladesh’s history two years ago.

“Terrorism has hit many countries hard, especially neighbouring country Pakistan, which is currently in a bad shape. Compared to them, we are doing pretty well. We are safe, but we will remain alert,” Obaidul told reporters.

He added that the government is combating militancy through both political maneuvers and law enforcement agencies.

Quoting the DMP commissioner, who visited the premises earlier in the day, the minister said a charge sheet into the case will be submitted by this week.

Responding to a query, Quader said: “Terrorism is now a global phenomenon. This is an international issue and has affected countries across the globe. School shootings have recently taken place even in the United States. 

“But after the Holey Artisan attack, no major incident has happened in Bangladesh, which proves the strong capacity of this country’s law enforcing agencies.”

He pointed out that due to the regular activities of law enforcement agencies, the militant network was damaged, weakened, but the threat is yet to be fully uprooted.