BGB remains on high alert to prevent any kind of illegal intrusion: Minister

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed today (12 May) said Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has been placed on maximum alert to prevent any illegal infiltration or push-ins along the borders, while ruling out the possibility of any domestic unrest in Bangladesh arising from elections or internal developments in any Indian state.

"Bangladesh maintains relations with friendly countries on the basis of sovereign equality. BGB remains on high alert to prevent any kind of illegal intrusion or push-in through the border," said the minister.

The minister made the remarks while briefing journalists after a high-level meeting at the Secretariat on law and order, security at sacrificial cattle markets, and overall preparations ahead of Eid-ul-Adha. 

He said strict security measures will be implemented nationwide during Eid to ensure public safety and the smooth movement of people and sacrificial animals.

A special monitoring cell has been formed at the Police Headquarters to oversee public security before and after Eid, Salahuddin said. "The cell will remain active round the clock for seven days before and seven days after Eid," he added.

Police, Rapid Action Battalion, Ansar, BGB, Bangladesh Coast Guard, and intelligence agencies have been instructed to work in close coordination. Hotline services of the police, Fire Service and Civil Defence, and the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority will remain active for emergency support during the Eid period.

A total of 4,259 cattle markets have been leased nationwide this year, including 15 under Dhaka North City Corporation and 11 under Dhaka South City Corporation.

Authorities have been instructed to ensure adequate lighting and CCTV surveillance at markets, while bank booths and counterfeit currency detection machines will also be installed, he said. Ansar members will be deployed at cattle markets based on demand from leaseholders to strengthen security.

Warning against extortion on roads and waterways involving cattle transport, the minister said law enforcement agencies will use body-worn cameras and conduct plainclothes surveillance to prevent such incidents.

He added that BGB has been directed to remain on highest alert to prevent rawhide smuggling after Eid.

To preserve the quality of sacrificial hides, a nationwide campaign will encourage people to apply salt within two hours of slaughter. He said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has approved Tk20 crore for the free distribution of salt for this purpose.

Instructions have also been issued to ensure garment workers receive wages and bonuses before the Eid holidays.

Meanwhile, measures are being taken to reduce road and waterway accidents by removing unfit vehicles and quickly repairing highway potholes. Special arrangements will also be made to prevent harassment of passengers and cattle transporters on ferries and launches during the Eid rush.

Expressing hope for a peaceful Eid celebration, the minister said coordinated government measures will help ensure a safe and festive environment across the country.