Photo : Messenger
Law enforcement officials credit the decline in fire-related incidents to the strategic deployment of plainclothes officers on public transport during the ongoing strike.
Approximately 13,000 law and order forces are actively engaged in this initiative. The call for a hartal blockade by BNP Jamaat has unfortunately led to a surge in vandalism targeting passenger buses. Incidents of bus arson have become a recurring theme during these protest programs, occurring at various times throughout the day, including morning, afternoon, and evening.
Miscreants have consistently targeted buses, demonstrating increased activity, particularly after dusk. It is noteworthy that incidents have occurred even in close proximity to police patrols and installations.
Amidst the surge in arson incidents during the ongoing strikes, the Police Headquarters and Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) have implemented several strategic steps to prevent further acts of sabotage. In a bid to encourage public participation, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and DMP Commissioner have announced a reward of Tk 20,000 for individuals providing concrete evidence leading to the identification and apprehension of arsonists.
As a result of these measures, the incidence of fires decreased significantly during the last three days of the siege. Additionally, a leader of Chhatra Dal was apprehended by RAB members in plainclothes amid an arson attempt.
Biplab Kumar Sarkar, Joint Commissioner of DMP, shared with The Daily Messenger that the most challenging aspect is dealing with covert or disguised attacks. Instances of such attacks are observed in contemporary times, and the security forces are taking all possible measures. However, those engaged in stealth sabotage are adapting by changing their locations, timing, and even the objects they target. Achieving a 100 percent elimination of those involved in covert attacks is challenging, but law enforcement has made concerted efforts.
Sarkar emphasised that anyone attempting to vandalise or cause harm to life and property will be apprehended and brought to justice.
He mentioned, "We have implemented several strategies to ensure security. Our team members in white uniforms are present on every passenger bus. Additionally, we have deployed undercover police officers to blend in with the public. These combined efforts have yielded positive results over the past three days."
According to DMP sources, a dedicated police team has been assigned to ensure the safety of buses, with approximately 8,000 officers distributed among 50 police stations across the capital to prevent vandalism and arson attacks on buses. Another 5,000 officers are actively working in the field. These 13,000 officers are strategically deployed to identify high-risk areas and times prone to accidents.
DMP officials note that some arsonists are employing tactics such as setting fire to the top or bottom of passenger cars. To carry out these acts, they use materials like petrol, gunpowder, dyes, cotton, and old clothes. Recognising the higher incidence of fire during the evening to midnight period, special plans have been devised to address these challenges during these hours.
In addition to these measures, recognising that empty buses are prime targets for miscreants, bus owners have been provided with specific instructions. Passengers are urged to occupy the front seats if the back is unoccupied, and if feasible, at least one person should be seated at the back of the bus.
To enhance security, the police have adopted a strategic approach to prevent arson incidents. Policemen are actively capturing photographs of passengers aboard buses at various locations across the capital. This initiative serves to facilitate the easy identification of passengers in case of vandalism. Furthermore, police officers are engaging with landlords, encouraging them to cooperate, and actively promoting the practice of bus staff taking photographs for added security.
Regarding this matter, Mohammad Haroon Or Rashid, DB Chief and Additional Commissioner of Police, conveyed to The Daily Messenger that individuals who engaged in destructive activities the previous day under the guise of blockades, creating anarchy, and instilling panic by setting fire to stationed buses, are spread throughout the country. Despite their widespread presence, law enforcement is committed to conducting raids and making arrests. He emphasised that saboteurs will be apprehended not only in the city of Dhaka but wherever they are across the country. The police have compiled a list of names, leading to the arrest of several individuals involved in such activities.
When questioned about the persisting incidents of bus arson despite police efforts, Mohammad Haroon explained that both thana police and DB police are conducting extensive patrols throughout Dhaka city. Mobile courts are in operation, and checkposts have been established to identify and apprehend those responsible for setting buses on fire. Emphasising that the saboteurs are committing criminal offenses, he assured that all individuals involved in such activities will be brought to justice.
He further stated, "Due to these efforts, you can observe that terrorists have not had the opportunity to carry out such actions in the last three days."
Addressing the ongoing challenges, Commander Khandaker Al Moin, the Director of RAB Legal and Media Wing, shared that miscreants tend to select secluded locations or times that suit their convenience for setting vehicles on fire. Many of these individuals swiftly flee the scene after carrying out acts of arson, targeting motorcycles and passenger buses. The miscreants often ignite vehicles from various alleys.
However, Commander Moin expressed optimism, stating that due to certain strategic measures in place, the frequency of such incidents has decreased. He hopes that, with continued efforts and additional strategies, the incidents of vehicle arson will further decrease in the future.
According to DMP sources, a total of 1,965 individuals have been apprehended on charges of sabotage since October 28. Notably, last Thursday, 12 people were arrested on charges of attempting sabotage and setting vehicles on fire in Bhashantek, Shah Ali, and Shahbag police stations in the capital. The impact of the strike is reflected in the burning of 82 vehicles in the capital during this period. The ongoing efforts by law enforcement to identify and arrest those involved in criminal activities demonstrate a commitment to maintaining public safety and order during these challenging times.
Messenger/Disha
