Law enforcement agencies have tightened security across the capital Dhaka ahead of the verdict in the case against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two others over crimes against humanity committed during the July mass uprising. The number of checkpoints has also been increased.
Since Monday morning (17 November), police and other law enforcement personnel have been deployed at key areas and intersections across the city. A visit to various areas shows that the number of private vehicles on the roads is lower than usual. In recent days, several incidents, including crude bomb explosions and bus fires, have occurred in different areas, raising public concern over potential sabotage.
Security measures have been intensified around the High Court and tribunal areas. Roads from Doel Chattar towards Shikkhabhabon have been closed to traffic, and suspicious individuals are being searched and questioned.
The Supreme Court premises are heavily guarded, with army personnel stationed at the gates. Security has also been strengthened inside and outside the International Crimes Tribunal, with police and RAB personnel on duty. Officers are patrolling areas including Mohammadpur embankment, Karwan Bazar railway crossing, Mirpur, Shahbagh, Mogbazar, and Gabtali, conducting searches of suspicious individuals.
Despite heightened security, office-goers and the general public are moving around normally. Although private vehicles are fewer, public transport and the metro rail remain operational.
Police emphasised that law enforcement agencies, including police, RAB, and BGB, are fully prepared to prevent any untoward incidents.
Masud Alam, Deputy Commissioner (DC) of the Ramna Division, stated, “We are fully prepared to handle any situation. Additional police have been deployed at the International Crimes Tribunal, court premises, Shahbagh, and Dhaka University areas, and CCTV monitoring is ongoing.”
Deputy Commissioner (DC) of DMP, Muhammad Talebur Rahman, added, “Leaders and activists of a banned political party are reportedly engaging in destructive activities, including grenade explosions and arson, to create panic. There is no cause for public concern regarding the verdict. Police will ensure maximum law enforcement to maintain public safety.”