38 BGB platoons to be deployed in 3 districts from tomorrow

Ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election, Border Guard Bangladesh has taken extensive security measures in three districts, including the capital Dhaka, to ensure a free, fair and impartial vote.

Members of five battalions of BGB will be deployed in the field from tomorrow Thursday to maintain law and order during the election and ensure voter security.

The information was disclosed on Wednesday January 28 at noon at a press conference held at the training ground of BGB 5 Battalion at the BGB headquarters in Pilkhana, Dhaka, by battalion commander Lieutenant Colonel Taimur Hasan.

It was stated at the press conference that a total of 38 platoons will be deployed in the area under BGB 5 Battalion of the Dhaka Sector.

Of these, 11 platoons will be deployed in five parliamentary constituencies of Dhaka North City Corporation, six platoons in two constituencies of Savar and Dhamrai, 13 platoons in four constituencies of Faridpur and eight platoons in three constituencies of Manikganj.

As part of strengthening special security and technology-based surveillance surrounding the election, checkposts will be set up and searches conducted at key locations, including entry points to the capital.

Lieutenant Colonel Taimur Hasan said specialised K-9 dog squads of BGB will be deployed at important locations. In addition, Rapid Action Teams, Quick Response Forces and helicopters have been kept ready to deal with any emergency situation if required.

He added that BGB members will use body-worn cameras, night-vision devices, APCs and modern signal equipment while performing election duties. A monitoring cell has also been formed at the battalion headquarters to oversee the overall situation round the clock.

The BGB commander further said there is no restriction from the Election Commission on BGB entering polling centres during the election. If the presiding officer seeks assistance or if there is a risk of violence or vote rigging at a centre, BGB will immediately enter and take necessary action.