BGB to avoid use of lethal weapons during elections

Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) will not use lethal weapons while performing security duties during the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election and referendum, BGB Dhaka Sector Commander Colonel SM Abul Ehsan said.

He made the remarks around 11:30am at a press conference at a temporary base camp at the National Swimming Complex in the capital's Mirpur (January 31).

"Extensive security preparations have been taken to ensure voters can cast their ballots safely and without disruption. More than 37,000 BGB personnel will be deployed nationwide while maintaining full security along the country’s 4,427-kilometre border," he said.

"Considering risk assessments, BGB will also serve as mobile and static forces across all 300 parliamentary constituencies," he added.

At the upazila level, two to four platoons of BGB personnel will be deployed. To respond to emergencies, Rapid Action Teams (RAT), Quick Response Forces (QRF) supported by helicopters, and specialised K-9 dog squad units will remain on standby.

Asked about preparedness and drills ahead of the polls, Colonel Abul Ehsan said no major threats have been identified so far. “Following directives from the BGB director general, we will not use any lethal weapons to maintain law and order during the election,” he said.

Regarding coordination, he said base camp contact numbers have been shared with returning officers, who can reach BGB in case of any deterioration in law and order. Incidents can also be reported directly through the Election Commission’s security app, he added.