Government in a tough stance to tackle 'Dhaka Lockdown'

Security has been heightened at all important and sensitive points in the capital ahead of the 'Dhaka Lockdown' programme announced by political activists banned Awami League.

The presence of law enforcement agencies has been noticeable on important roads in the capital since Wednesday morning. Meanwhile, incidents of arson and clandestine cocktail explosions in various parts of the country, including Dhaka, in the past two days have spread panic among the public.

This has also affected the roadscape of the capital. The number of private cars was slightly lower in Dhaka on Wednesday compared to other normal days. However, the movement of rickshaws, motorcycles, CNG and battery-powered auto-rickshaws was almost normal. Even rickshaws were seen plying on VIP roads like on other days.

Visiting Mirpur, Farmgate, Karwan Bazar, Shahbagh, Minto Road and Hatirjheel areas of the capital, it was seen that although the movement of private cars was comparatively less, public transport was normal. Law enforcement officials say that in the wake of the recent arson and cocktail explosion incidents, many people are refraining from going out in their private cars.

Although the number of cars is comparatively less in Lalbagh, Azimpur, New Market and Dhanmondi areas, some traffic jams were seen on the road in front of the market as New Market is open.

Police patrols and searches have been increased in various areas of the capital to prevent any sabotage. Law enforcers are conducting searches whenever they see a suspicious person. Surveillance has been increased by setting up checkpoints at important intersections and entrances, as well as vehicle searches.

According to the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), 17 cocktail explosions and 9 vehicle arson occurred in Dhaka from November 1 to 11 and in the last two days, 17 cases have been filed and 50 people have been arrested in these incidents. In addition, 14 flash mobs took place in the capital from October to November 11 and 552 people have been arrested.

As part of the precaution in this situation, the law enforcement agencies have ordered the cancellation of the leave of all Metrorail employees and increased surveillance. Following that instruction, the Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) has decided to cancel the leave.

In addition, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has ordered all airports in the country to be on maximum alert, considering the threat of sabotage.

The directive states that frequent searches at the entry and exit points of the airport, security checks of passengers and cargo, frequent patrols in sensitive areas, daily safety equipment checks, regular briefings of officials and 24-hour CCTV monitoring should be continued.

At the same time, the organization has also emphasized ensuring fire safety of all establishments including gas and electrical lines and keeping fire safety systems active at all times.

Meanwhile, 14 platoons of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been deployed in Dhaka and surrounding districts on Wednesday to maintain law and order and strengthen security. Out of these, 12 platoons are working in Dhaka and 2 platoons in surrounding districts.

Home Affairs Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said that the government is in a strong position to prevent the 'Dhaka Lockdown' programme. He said on Tuesday that the law enforcement forces have been kept in a strong position focusing on the event. Patrols have been strengthened in KPIs and important areas, a ban has been imposed on the sale of open fuel, and security measures have been taken by dividing the entire Dhaka into eight zones.

Earlier, on Sunday, the Home Ministry's core committee meeting at the Secretariat gave strict instructions to prevent the 'lockdown' programme. The meeting also ordered immediate arrests if anyone goes to the field, as well as the law enforcement agencies to be on the highest alert.

There is also concern among the general public across the capital regarding the programme. However, the police have assured the public.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat ​​Ali said at a press conference on Tuesday, 'Security has been strengthened in the capital. Security will be further increased on the day of the programme.'

He also said: "Owners must be vigilant so that no one can rent another's motorcycle or vehicle and use it for sabotage. If you see any suspicious person or incident, I request you to call the national emergency service 999 immediately and report it."