Dhaka, May 06 (V7N) — Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has issued a series of directives to District Commissioners (DCs) focusing on law and order, recovery of illegal weapons, case reviews, and preparations for the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha travel.

He gave the instructions on Wednesday (May 6) during the final day of the District Commissioners’ Conference held at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital.

The minister said the process of returning legally deposited firearms to licensed owners is being initiated. However, he clarified that not all weapons will be returned. According to him, only those licensed before January 6, 2009, and lawful owners under current policy guidelines will be eligible.

He added that firearms issued after August 5, 2024, and licenses granted under politically influenced decisions between 2009 and 2024 will not be returned.

Salahuddin Ahmed also ordered a nationwide drive to recover around 10,000 unsubmitted weapons from the interim period, seize them, and take legal action against those involved.

Regarding politically motivated cases filed during the previous government, he said district-level committees will review applications for withdrawal. Cases involving serious crimes such as murder, violence against women, or drug trafficking will only be reconsidered if evidence of political vendetta is found.

He further instructed authorities to prepare an accurate list to ensure proper prosecution of those involved in mass killings during post-August 5 political unrest, while ensuring that innocent individuals are not falsely implicated.

On Eid-ul-Azha preparations, the Home Minister directed DCs to ensure smooth travel for citizens and proper market management. He also said salt will be supplied to preserve sacrificial animal hides for up to seven days, and added that hides will not be transported to Dhaka during that period.

END/SMA/AJ