BGB deployed in five districts after Army called out as security tightened over Awami League anniversary

The move comes as security is tightened around the founding anniversary of the Awami League, whose activities are banned

The government has deployed the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) in five districts to maintain law and order, after earlier deciding to call out the Army in six districts.

The move comes ahead of the founding anniversary of the Awami League, whose activities are banned. Police issued a nationwide alert two days ago.

The BGB announced the deployment in a statement on Monday.

“On the instruction of the Ministry of Home Affairs, BGB members have been deployed in Cox’s Bazar, Madaripur, Sherpur, Gazipur and Moulvibazar districts to maintain internal law and order and tackle possible security risks,” the statement said.

BGB personnel will perform duties from Monday evening until Jun 30 in coordination with the district administrations and law-enforcing agencies.

The force said its members would also remain on standby for immediate deployment in other districts, if required.

Earlier in the day, the government decided to deploy the Army in six districts, including three metropolitan areas. The troops have been given magisterial powers.