Maximum security in capital ahead of election, special units deployed

Dhaka is being placed under a blanket of maximum security centring on the thirteenth national parliamentary election and referendum. Ahead of the vote on Thursday, police have adopted the highest level of security measures across the Dhaka metropolitan area. Alongside general security, all specialised police units, including SWAT and K-9 teams, will be deployed on the streets, said DMP deputy commissioner, media, Muhammad Talebur Rahman.

He shared the information at a press conference at his office on Minto Road on Wednesday, February 11. He said a total of 26,515 DMP members have been deployed in Dhaka for various election duties. In addition to security inside polling centres, striking forces, mobile teams and reserve forces will be stationed outside. Specialised police units, including the bomb disposal unit, SWAT, K-9 units and crime scene vans, will also remain on standby to deal with any situation.

Muhammad Talebur Rahman said checkpoint and patrol operations have been further strengthened across the capital in view of the election. Police efforts are continuing at the highest level to keep the law and order situation normal ahead of the polls. There is no indication of sabotage so far, he said, but police remain on alert. He expressed hope that the election would be held in a smooth and orderly environment.

Reassuring voters, the DMP official said, “You will be able to come to polling centres calmly, fearlessly and without hindrance to exercise your fundamental right. Police are right beside you.”

Asked about any specific threats or risks, Talebur Rahman said police are not anticipating any such threats. “However, we have taken full preparations and police remain at the highest level of alert,” he added.