No security threat amid August: Police

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has confirmed that there are no current security concerns centered around the month of August, despite recent arrests related to a ‘conspiratorial’ meeting held in the Bashundhara area on July 8.

At a press briefing on Friday (Augus 1), DMP Deputy Commissioner (Media) Muhammad Talebur Rahman said police are investigating a secret meeting held at KB Convention Hall, allegedly organized under the guise of an overseas employment agency. A total of 22 individuals, including members of the banned Awami League and its affiliated organizations, have been arrested in connection with the gathering.

Rahman stated that a case was filed with Bhatara Police Station on July 13, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the motive, key figures, and broader implications of the meeting. He added that Major Sadiqul Haque was taken into custody by the army after being named as a participant.

Addressing speculation on social media regarding potential unrest, particularly around August 8, Rahman reassured, "We are vigilant, but currently see no specific security threat surrounding August."

In a related update, Rahman said eight more individuals from the banned organizations were arrested in the past 24 hours from various areas in the capital. He emphasized that all arrests are based on verified intelligence, and denied any instance of arbitrary or mass arrests.

The DMP conducted 489 patrols and set up 66 check-posts across 50 police stations in the last 24 hours, resulting in 254 arrests for various crimes. Confiscated items included mobile phones, motorcycles, a private vehicle, and narcotics.

Separately, six people have been arrested in connection with an extortion case involving the residence of a former female MP in Gulshan. According to police, the suspects impersonated student movement coordinators and demanded Tk 50 lakh, receiving Tk 10 lakh initially and later returning to demand the remainder. Five were arrested from the scene on July 26, while the sixth—Jane Alam Tapu—was arrested from Gopibag on Friday. Police also recovered four cheques worth Tk 2.25 crore and Tk 2.98 lakh in cash during follow-up raids.

The Commissioner further confirmed that investigations into both incidents are ongoing to identify further involvement and uncover the full scope of the conspiracies.