By Sheikh Arif (Dhaka Bureau)
The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), an elite force in Bangladesh, alongside the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), has implemented maximum security measures across the country, including the capital Dhaka, surrounding the anniversary of the assassination of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on August 15. Strict surveillance and search operations are underway to prevent banned organizations, extremist groups, or ill-motivated factions from committing any acts of sabotage or untoward incidents.
However, high-ranking officials from law enforcement agencies confirmed that, up to this moment, there is no threat of a major security breach or sabotage. Nonetheless, law enforcement agencies have adopted the highest state of readiness for public peace of mind and overall safety.
RAB’s Nationwide Coordinated Preparedness and Cyber Patrols
According to a press release issued by RAB, each battalion has formulated an independent security plan after assessing the risk factors in its respective jurisdiction. In addition to bolstering security at sensitive and vulnerable locations, intelligence personnel and local informants have been deployed.
RAB is executing its duties in coordination with the Special Security Force (SSF), local administrations, and other intelligence agencies depending on the location. To counter rumors, fake news, and misinformation on social media, RAB’s cyber patrolling unit maintains round-the-clock monitoring. Furthermore, RAB’s bomb disposal unit remains on standby to neutralize explosives if detected anywhere.
A rickshaw puller is being beaten on allegations of recording a video on his mobile phone. The incident took place on the morning of August 15 in front of Dhanmondi 32. Photo: Collected.
DMP’s Multi-Tiered Security Perimeter in Dhaka
The DMP has instituted multi-tiered security measures to maintain normal law and order in the capital city, placing the entirety of Dhaka under a special security cover.
* Strict Searches at Entry Points: Pickets and checkpoints (checkposts) have been established at all entry points to the capital.
* Deployment of Specialized Units: The Detective Branch (DB), Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC), SWAT, Bomb Disposal, and K-9 (Dog Squad) units are conducting sweeping operations and maintaining operational readiness at strategic points.
* Drone and CCTV Surveillance: Key infrastructure and gathering spots are under constant monitoring via aerial drones and CCTV cameras.
* Emergency Response: Multiple Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have been kept ready to respond to any unforeseen incidents.
Regarding the overall security situation, Mohammad Osman Gani, DMP Additional Commissioner (Crime and Operations), informed the International Press Agency- Pressenza: ‘Personnel from various divisions of the DMP have been deployed at key locations across the capital to ensure that no banned organization can cause any untoward incident surrounding August 15. We assure that there is currently no direct threat or fear of sabotage. Senior DMP officials are personally in the field supervising all operations to ensure the safety of city residents.’
Call for Public Awareness
Law enforcement agencies have advised the general public to remain vigilant. Citizens are requested to report any suspicious individuals, objects, or activities to the nearest law enforcement authority immediately.
‘Joy Bangla’ Slogans at Dhanmondi 32: 3 Beaten, 2 Detained
At Dhanmondi 32 in the capital, three individuals were assaulted outside the demolished residence of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman over allegations of chanting ‘Joy Bangla’ slogans, recording videos on mobile phones, and distributing ‘shingaras'(food). Police have so far detained two individuals in connection with the incident.
The assault took place around 12:00 PM today, Saturday, at the entry point of the Dhanmondi 32 road. The immediate identities of those assaulted could not be confirmed.
Earlier, at around 10:15 AM, police detained a man named Arnab Das, who had come to Dhanmondi 32 to offer flowers.
Muhammad Imdadul Islam, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Dhanmondi Police Station, told Pressenza that Arnab Das hails from Tangail. Preliminary police investigations suggest that he is an active worker of the banned Jubo League organization. He is currently under interrogation.
Sheikh Arif: Panel Editor, Pressenza- Dhaka Bureau.
