Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Saturday instructed the police to take action against members who remain in contact with “fascist” forces, saying those involved in such activities would face legal action, including treason cases.

He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the medal presentation ceremony of Police Week 2026 at Rajarbagh Police Lines in the capital on Saturday morning.

The home minister said some police members were still maintaining contact with “fascist” forces and providing them with various information.

He said the government would not hesitate to take necessary legal action, including filing treason cases, against any police member who violated discipline.

Salahuddin Ahmed also instructed the police to use intelligence information to bring the “fascist associates” of the banned Awami League under the law. He announced rewards for those who would play a role in arresting such individuals.

The home minister said the role of the police was undeniable in maintaining internal security, peace and order and establishing the rule of law in the country.

As the visible face of the state, the police have direct contact with the people, he said. When a citizen falls victim to a crime or feels insecure, they first turn to the police, he added.

“We want to build a police force that is modern in terms of efficiency and professionalism, technologically capable, humane in behaviour, firm in law enforcement, impartial in carrying out its duties, and a symbol of public trust and confidence,” he said.

Referring to declining public confidence in the police, the home minister said the government had made strong efforts over the past few months since taking responsibility.

He said efforts were being made to restore the image of the police and regain public confidence through three types of support — institutional, legislative and administrative.

He urged police members to understand the importance of maintaining their own morale and earning public trust.

At the ceremony, the home minister presented PPM and BPM medals to 98 police members.

Senior Secretary of the Home Ministry Manzur Morshed Chowdhury, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Md Ali Hossain Fakir and senior police officials were present at the event.