IGP Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun. Photo : Collected
A substantial contingent of law enforcement personnel will be deployed in the field during tomorrow's 12th national election, equipped with advanced technologies such as helicopters, OVIS, and drones.
Alongside uniformed officers, plainclothes personnel will be strategically placed at each center for surveillance. A stern warning has been issued to potential saboteurs, emphasising severe consequences for any attempts to disrupt the election process.
IGP Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun assured reporters that the police are thoroughly prepared to maintain law and order during the elections. Security measures, including the deployment of police personnel, have already been implemented to safeguard the voting centers. All necessary precautions have been taken to ensure a secure and equitable voting process for the voters.
In response to a query, he stated that the BNP did not participate in the election and even called for a strike on that day. Their previous attempts to disrupt elections through conspiracies were unsuccessful, and he expressed confidence that they would not succeed this time either.
Emphasising the intelligence agencies' awareness of their schemes, he reassured the public that the BNP's plans would not be successful. He affirmed that voters could freely exercise their right to vote without any security risks. The message to the respected voters is one of assurance that the ongoing security measures are in place to safeguard the electoral process.
He emphasised, "Attempting to sabotage the election will lead to serious consequences, and immediate legal action will be taken against the vandals."
Addressing concerns about the spread of rumors, the IGP outlined the police's role in the cyber realm. Various police units are actively engaged in monitoring and managing the digital space, utilising technology to conduct their operations. This approach aims to prevent the dissemination of false information and rumors, ensuring a secure and transparent electoral process.
In addressing a question regarding the hartal, the police chief expressed confidence, stating, "The people of this country are election-oriented, and citizens are eagerly anticipating the election. People will go to the polling stations in groups, and I believe that protesters will not be present during the election festival."
Regarding concerns about potentially risky centers, he assured, "Adequate security arrangements have been put in place for all centers. Various law enforcement agencies are collaboratively working together, including the local administration, returning officers, and all law-and-order forces. We are operating on a unified platform to ensure the security of the electoral process."
Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) Director General Major General AKM Nazmul Hasan affirmed the readiness of the force to handle any situation related to the 12th National Parliament elections.
He disclosed that 1155 platoons of BGB members have been strategically deployed nationwide, including the capital, with the aim of ensuring the elections are free, fair, and peaceful, while also maintaining peace and order. The manpower is actively operating from 487 base camps across the country, and 700 patrols are engaged in round-the-clock patrolling activities, ready to respond promptly to any emerging challenges.
He mentioned that the BGB's Rapid Action Team and Dog Squad are actively engaged in their duties. Additionally, the force has a Quick Response team on standby, with members prepared to swiftly reach any location by helicopter to address emergent situations promptly.
Highlighting their commitment to maintaining order and security, he emphasised that the BGB is prepared to take necessary measures to prevent vandalism and ensure the protection of people's lives during the 12th National Parliamentary elections.
In response to a query, he confirmed that additional security measures have been implemented at vulnerable centers, acknowledging that the risk assessment for these centers might change based on the evolving situation. He reassured the public that comprehensive preparations have been made in alignment with the dynamic circumstances.
Highlighting the proactive role of the intelligence unit, he mentioned that members are discreetly gathering information in plain clothes. The BGB stands ready to prevent any potential sabotage, operating in coordination with other law enforcement agencies to ensure the security and integrity of the electoral process.
Director General (DG) of Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defense Force, Major General AKM Aminul Haque, has announced that a substantial force of 5 lakh 17 thousand 143 members of Ansar and Village Defense has been strategically deployed nationwide. Their primary objectives are to maintain law and order, ensuring the security of polling stations, and safeguarding the integrity of ballot boxes during the 12th National Assembly elections.
Major General AKM Aminul Haque noted that Ansar members currently assigned to the security of railways and KPI institutions will have separate roles during the 12th National Assembly elections.
He emphasised the preparedness of law-and-order forces, including Ansar, to handle any attempts at sabotage related to the elections. Major General Haque pointed out that certain opposition parties might not want the elections to proceed smoothly, undertaking various efforts to disrupt the process and cast doubt on the legitimacy of the election. He assured that they are aware of these efforts and expressed confidence in the ability of the security forces to eliminate any form of sabotage, ensuring the integrity and fairness of the electoral process.
Khandaker Al Moin, the Director of the RAB (Rapid Action Battalion) media wing, emphasised the comprehensive use of technology to maintain law and order during the upcoming events.
He mentioned the utilisation of OVIS at check posts, aiding in the identification and apprehension of culprits.
Furthermore, Al Moin highlighted the deployment of helicopters and drones for specific needs.
Messenger/Disha
