Dhaka security tightened ahead of Tarique Rahman’s return

Security has been heightened across key areas of the capital ahead of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman’s return to Bangladesh after nearly 17 years.

Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has been deployed at sensitive locations, including Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, the 300 Feet area and parts of Gulshan, law enforcement sources said.

The aircraft carrying Tarique Rahman departed London’s Heathrow Airport on Thursday and is scheduled to land in Dhaka around midday. He is travelling with his wife, Dr Zubaida Rahman, and their daughter, barrister Zaima Rahman.

A bulletproof vehicle has been positioned at the airport for his movement. BNP sources said party leaders and activists have gathered in the area to receive him.

According to the schedule, after a brief stay at the airport’s VIP lounge (Rajnigandha), Tarique Rahman will travel by road via Kuril to the reception stage set up in the 300 Feet area, where he is expected to address supporters. He will later visit Evercare Hospital to see his mother and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, before proceeding to the Gulshan residence, ‘Firoza’.

Authorities have put in place a three-tier security arrangement. The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has restricted visitor entry to the airport until 6:00pm on Thursday. Intelligence surveillance has been intensified, and SWAT teams have been kept on standby, officials said.