No security threat for Pahela Baishakh, but special commando force on standby: RAB DG

Comprehensive security measures have been taken across the country for the celebration of Bengali New Year 1433. Although there is no specific security threat, the RAB special commando force has been kept on standby to deal with any sabotage, said RAB Director General Additional IGP Md Ahsan Habib Polash.

The RAB DG made the remarks while inspecting security arrangements at Ramna Botmool in the capital on Monday, April 13, and briefing the media on the measures taken by RAB for the nationwide Bengali New Year celebrations.

The RAB chief said 15 battalions will be deployed across the country to ensure a festive atmosphere for Pahela Baishakh celebrations. RAB members will remain actively on duty in their respective areas until the New Year's programmes conclude. A total of 308 patrol teams, including 181 pickup patrol teams and 127 motorcycle patrol teams, will be on the ground.

It was informed that special security measures have been taken at various locations in the capital, including Shahbagh, TSC, Suhrawardy Udyan, Rabindra Sarobar, Hatirjheel, Manik Mia Avenue, Bangla Academy and Ramna Botmool. Checkposts and observation posts have been set up in these areas, and regular patrols have been intensified. Plainclothes intelligence surveillance has also been strengthened.

The RAB DG said bomb disposal units and dog squads have already carried out sweeping operations and are ready to deal with any situation. Additionally, control rooms, foot patrols, CCTV monitoring and adequate reserve forces have been arranged nationwide.

He further said no specific sabotage threat has been detected so far through intelligence and cyber monitoring. However, strict surveillance continues to prevent anyone from creating instability by spreading rumours, provocative or false information.

The RAB chief said special measures have been taken to ensure the safety of women at New Year's venues and to prevent eve-teasing and sexual harassment.

Appealing to the public, Ahsan Habib Polash said any suspicious information or security risk should be immediately reported to law enforcement agencies. Strict legal action will be taken against those found involved.

He expressed hope that, like previous years, Bengali New Year will be celebrated in a peaceful and festive atmosphere.