SB’s countrywide special alert

Staff Reporter :

Law enforcement agencies across Bangladesh have been placed on heightened alert for an 11-day period, from 29 July to 8 August, amid concerns over possible unrest linked to banned activists associated with the Awami League (AL).

According to a Special Branch (SB) notification issued on Monday to various police units, there are fears that attempts may be made to disrupt public order through both online and offline means.

The advisory warns of potential acts of vandalism, attacks on public or private establishments, and other forms of political agitation during this time.

The alert has been circulated to key law enforcement officials including the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner, divisional deputy commissioners, and superintendents of police in Chattogram, Khulna, and all other districts.

The SB has identified the period as particularly sensitive due to various programmes planned by political and civil society groups to commemorate the anniversary of the July Uprising – a historical political movement that continues to draw public attention.

Despite the circulated alert, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam told reporters on Tuesday that he was unaware of any specific 11-day directive but acknowledged that law enforcement is maintaining a cautious stance throughout July and August, given the potential for unrest.

“The overall political environment is being closely monitored,” the IGP said, adding that police forces are prepared to respond as necessary to ensure public safety.

As part of the security measures, all police units have been instructed to closely observe political activities within their jurisdictions, monitor suspicious individuals and vehicles, enhance protection around government and private establishments and intensify cyber surveillance to detect provocative online content.

Officials noted that coordinated efforts are being undertaken to pre-empt any attempt to destabilise the situation.