Dhaka, Dec 11 (V7N) – The Ministry of Home Affairs has authorized 579 field-level officials of the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) to carry and use firearms during anti-drug operations.

Announcing the "Department of Narcotics Control (Officers-Employees) Weapon Procurement and Usage Policy 2024" on Tuesday, the ministry confirmed that selected officials will be equipped with 9mm semi-automatic pistols (T-54) for enhanced security and operational efficiency.

The DNC, tasked with combating drug abuse in Bangladesh, undertakes drug recovery drives, arrests traffickers, and investigates narcotics-related crimes. This policy aims to bolster the safety of its officials, who often face significant risks during operations.

Currently, the DNC comprises 3,059 personnel, including one director general, four directors, and nine additional directors. Field-level ranks include 90 deputy directors, 93 assistant directors, 186 inspectors, 210 sub-inspectors, 285 assistant sub-inspectors, and 928 sepoys.

Out of the total workforce, 1,806 officers and staff are directly engaged in narcotics suppression activities. The policy prioritizes firearm allocation for 579 personnel at the field level, covering roles such as deputy directors, assistant directors, inspectors, and sub-inspectors.

The Ministry of Home Affairs stated that this measure is essential for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of DNC officials during high-risk anti-narcotics operations.

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