Nationwide security tightened ahead of Hasina’s verdict
NN ONLINE:
Law enforcement agencies across the country have been placed on maximum alert ahead of today’s verdict in the crimes against humanity case against three accused, including ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said on Sunday that all agencies are fully prepared to prevent any untoward situation, adding that security measures have been strengthened nationwide. Speaking at Barishal District Police Lines, he said authorities do not anticipate major disruptions but are taking all necessary precautions. Security has been tightened in Dhaka, particularly around the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT).
The International Crimes Tribunal-1 (ICT-1) is set to announce its judgment in the case linked to the July Mass Uprising murder charges against ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and former IGP Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun. Shahbagh Police Station OC Khalid Munsur said multiple security layers have been deployed, with personnel working under directives from senior officials to ensure order.
Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), Armed Police Battalion (APBn), Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and army units are positioned at key locations, including the Supreme Court Mazar Gate and ICT entry points. Armoured vehicles from BGB and DMP have also been deployed. Check posts at major entry routes into Dhaka have been active since Sunday, with increased patrols and intensified checks on suspicious individuals.
BGB forces have additionally been deployed in Dhaka, Faridpur, Gopalganj, and Madaripur to strengthen law and order. Earlier, 12 BGB platoons were positioned across Dhaka, with further deployments in Narayanganj and Gazipur.
Officials said coordination meetings were held to assess security requirements and deploy forces accordingly. Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with security personnel, assuring that all necessary measures are in place to maintain safety and normalcy ahead of the widely anticipated verdict.