Stern action will be taken against those instigating anti-state activities: Home adviser

The government will take strict action against criminals and those instigating anti-state and destructive activities, Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said today (25 March).

The government is committed to maintaining law and order, particularly on the Independence Day on 26 March and the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr, he said while talking to reporters after the 8th meeting of the Advisory Council on law and order at the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The overall law and order situation was discussed with a focus on ensuring security during these significant events, he added.

"The law enforcement agencies have been instructed to strengthen their vigilance, increase patrolling and strengthen intelligence monitoring. Checkposts will be set up at key entry points of Dhaka and drives  in residential hotels and slums will be intensified," he said.

Besides, police and other law enforcement agencies have established control rooms to manage traffic and security issues and these control rooms will coordinate with the Home Ministry's Joint Operation Center at 01320001223, said the adviser.

Authorities will implement the Electronic Toll Collection System (ETC) at toll plazas on the Jamuna and Padma bridges and major flyovers for swift toll payments.

Restrictions will be imposed on the movement of long-haul vehicles carrying construction materials three days before and after Eid to ensure smooth traffic flow.

Necessary measures will be taken to prevent these vehicles from using highways and ferry routes during this period.

To facilitate hassle-free travel during Eid, transport operators were instructed to refrain from overloading passengers or overcharging fares, he said.

"Security measures will be strengthened against crimes such as robbery, extortion, and organised criminal activities. Both uniformed police and intelligence officers will be deployed at key locations, while checkposts will be installed at major roads and intersections. Escort services will be provided for money transfers, and steps will be taken to prevent counterfeiting of currency," he added.