Police on high alert over potential AL unrest, special operations ordered nationwide

Law enforcement authorities have issued a nationwide high-alert directive amid concerns over potential political unrest linked to the banned political party, the Awami League. The Special Branch (SB) of the police has warned that the party may attempt to incite violence or orchestrate chaos across the country.

According to an official letter signed by the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of SB’s Political Wing, all police units—ranging from metropolitan and divisional forces to district-level commands—have been instructed to remain vigilant and implement heightened security measures from July 29 to August 8.

The SB's alert specifically warns of possible clandestine gatherings by Awami League members, which could lead to attacks or violent demonstrations. Authorities are particularly concerned about the use of both online and offline platforms for coordinated propaganda efforts aimed at destabilizing the country.

The directive emphasizes increased surveillance of political activities, intensified cyber monitoring, and tighter security at government and private installations. All police units have been instructed to monitor suspicious individuals and vehicles, with particular attention to motorcycles, microbuses, and transport hubs such as bus terminals, launch docks, railway stations, and airports.

During this period, mobile patrols will be reinforced, and arrest warrants actively executed. The SB has also called for expanded cyber patrolling and intelligence-gathering efforts.

Police officials claim that while some youth and student wings of the Awami League are not active on the ground, they have organized a "virtual squad" that is allegedly spreading provocative content via platforms such as Facebook, Telegram, and YouTube in an attempt to foment unrest.

The alert coincides with the anniversary of the historic July Uprising, a date anti-government and anti-fascist groups have been commemorating through public programs since the beginning of the month. Authorities believe the period from July 29 to August 8 is particularly sensitive and may be used to provoke or disrupt law and order.

Commenting on the developments, Home Adviser Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury told media outlets that elements aligned with the Awami League are "actively conspiring to destabilize the nation," allegedly using repatriated funds to finance political unrest.

"They will be dealt with firmly," said the adviser. "Anyone plotting to disrupt national stability—whether from inside or outside the country—will face decisive action."