Govt withdraws ‘special security’ for 18 ministers

The government has withdrawn police protection escorts, or special security convoys, assigned to 18 ministers as part of efforts to reduce state expenditure.

However, the facility will remain in place for one adviser and six senior ministers, according to sources.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman decided to limit his own security convoy after taking office. He reduced the number of vehicles in his motorcade and does not receive additional traffic privileges while travelling on the roads.

As a result, his motorcade waits at traffic signals like other vehicles and resumes its journey only after receiving signals from traffic police.

According to sources at the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), the protection escorts for the 18 ministers were withdrawn on 20 July.

However, under existing government regulations, their personal security guards, residential security and special police protection during official tours outside Dhaka will continue as before.