No security threat surrounding Feb 21 events, says DMP chief

He says a multi-layered security arrangement is in place, with around 15,000 police personnel set to be deployed in and around the Central Shaheed Minar

Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzat Ali has said there is no security threat surrounding the observance of Language Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day on Feb 21.

However, he said a multi-layered security arrangement has been put in place, with 15,000 police personnel deployed in and around the Central Shaheed Minar.

Speaking after inspecting preparations at the Shaheed Minar on Friday, the commissioner said a large crowd was expected to gather to pay tribute to the language martyrs.

In addition to police, members of other law enforcement agencies and volunteers will also be deployed, he said, urging visitors to maintain discipline and uphold the sanctity of the memorial.

Referring to the recent national election, he said it had been held in a peaceful and orderly environment.

“There is also no security threat regarding the Ekushey programme,” he said.

Even so, alongside regular police deployment, SWAT teams, dog squads, bomb disposal units and crime scene units will remain on standby. Intelligence surveillance and cyber monitoring will also be intensified.

Responding to a question, Sazzat said security measures were not limited to the Shaheed Minar.

“Our arrangements cover the entire city of Dhaka, and we will continue efforts to keep the city secure,” he said.

In the first hour of Feb 21, the president, prime minister and other state dignitaries are scheduled to lay wreaths at the Central Shaheed Minar. Foreign diplomats are also expected to pay tribute. The memorial will then be opened to the public after VVIPs and VIPs have finished.

The commissioner said members of the public must use the designated route via Palashi intersection and Jagannath Hall crossing to reach the Shaheed Minar.

“No other routes will be allowed. This must be followed for discipline and security,” he said. After paying tribute, visitors may exit via Romana crossing towards Doel Chattar or through Chankharpul.

He warned that no sharp objects, flammable materials or explosives would be allowed at the venue and asked visitors to follow designated entry and exit routes.

Traffic diversions will be enforced from Friday evening at entry points to the Dhaka University area. Teachers, students and residents have been requested to cooperate by following traffic instructions.

DMP Additional Commissioner (Traffic) Md Anisur Rahman said diversions would be in place at Shahbagh, Nilkhet, Shahidullah Hall, High Court, Chankharpul, Palashi and Bakshibazar intersections.

“As every year, necessary traffic measures have been taken. With everyone’s cooperation, we hope to organise the event smoothly,” he said.