Security stepped up ahead of 15 August amid sabotage fears

Law enforcement agencies are on high alert across the country to prevent any untoward incidents ahead of and on 15 August, the anniversary of the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, with police and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) intensifying security and intelligence operations.
The Bangladesh Awami League, whose activities have been banned by executive order, along with its affiliated organisations and student wing Bangladesh Chhatra League, which is also banned, is suspected of planning sabotage ahead of and on the day, law enforcement sources said.
Security measures have been stepped up nationwide to counter possible threats, while information on suspected members and activists of the banned organisations is being collected, RAB said.
Contacted by the Daily Sun, Deputy Inspector General (Operations) at Police Headquarters Md Rezaul Karim said police remain on high alert to thwart any attempt at sabotage.
“I don’t believe the Awami League and its associate wings have the strength to stage any show of force in the country. Even so, if they attempt sabotage in any form, we are prepared to resist them,” he said.
In a statement issued on Thursday, RAB outlined a series of security measures taken ahead of 15 August.
Each battalion has reviewed potential security threats and drawn up security plans, while sensitive locations within their areas of responsibility have been identified and security measures reinforced, the statement said.
RAB said intelligence surveillance of the activities and movements of extremist groups, banned organisations and anti-state elements had been intensified to prevent unrest during political programmes.
The elite force has also coordinated with the Special Security Force (SSF), local administrations, other law enforcement agencies and intelligence bodies where necessary.
Area-based contacts, informants and intelligence sources have been activated to strengthen information gathering, while plain-clothes teams have been deployed along routes leading to programme venues.
RAB personnel have also been deployed at political programme venues and surrounding areas, with heightened surveillance to prevent any untoward incident.
The force has taken precautions to prevent leaders and activists of banned organisations, criminals and extremist groups from infiltrating venues and creating disorder.
Cyber patrolling has also been strengthened to counter rumours and disinformation on social media. Immediate action will be taken against those found spreading misleading posts, comments or images, RAB said.
Its bomb disposal units have been kept on standby to respond immediately if explosives or suspicious materials are found.
RAB urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious person, object or activity to the nearest law enforcement agency without delay.