18,000 police to be deployed across Dhaka ahead of AL founding anniversary: DMP
Special pickets at over 200 points, tightened entry checks, and 15 quick response teams will be in place as authorities brace for possible clashes around 23 June
The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) is set to deploy more than 18,000 officers and personnel across the capital as part of extensive security arrangements surrounding the 23 June founding anniversary of the activities-banned Awami League.
In a statement issued yesterday (21 June) night, DMP Deputy Commissioner (Media and Public Relations) Niaz Md Mehedi said comprehensive measures had been taken to maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incidents in the city.
According to the statement, security will be strengthened throughout Dhaka, with police maintaining heightened vigilance across key locations.
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More than 200 strategic points in the capital will be brought under special security coverage through police pickets and checkposts. Law enforcers have also tightened security at all entry points to Dhaka to prevent the movement of individuals suspected of attempting to create unrest.
Alongside regular police units, members of the Detective Branch (DB) and the Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) unit will remain deployed across the city.
The Special Branch (SB) and Internal Affairs Division (IAD) will also conduct intelligence operations in plain clothes to gather information and prevent any potential sabotage or subversive activities.
To ensure a rapid response to any emergency situation, 15 Quick Response Teams (QRTs) will be stationed at key locations throughout the capital.
In addition, four central control rooms will maintain reserve forces ready for immediate deployment if necessary.
The DMP said senior officers, including the police commissioner, would directly supervise field-level operations to ensure effective coordination and implementation of security measures.
Reiterating its commitment to public safety, the force said it would take all necessary steps to maintain peace and stability in the capital.
Meanwhile, Police Headquarters has instructed metropolitan police commissioners and range deputy inspectors general (DIGs) across the country to strengthen security measures amid concerns over possible tensions surrounding the anniversary.
In a directive signed by DIG Kamrul Ahsan on 18 June, field-level police units were asked to remain vigilant over the possibility of Awami League activists attempting to organise rallies, processions or flag-hoisting programmes at party offices and other locations on 23 June.
The directive noted that such activities could potentially trigger confrontations with members of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and activists of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.
It also warned that attempts by law enforcement agencies to prevent such programmes could lead to public resentment or create law-and-order challenges.
