The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has taken extensive security measures across the country to ensure peaceful and joyous celebrations of Pohela Boishakh, the first day of the Bengali new year, scheduled to be held on Monday.
Police, RAB, and intelligence agencies have been working in close coordination, RAB Director General AKM Shahidur Rahman told a press briefing in the capital's Ramna Park today.
He said intelligence surveillance has been significantly increased, and RAB will remain on the highest alert to deal with any situation.
Responding to a query about potential threats, he said that there is currently no specific security threat centering Pohela Boishakh celebrations, but he urged all to remain vigilant and co-operate with law enforcement agencies.
The RAB chief also said stern action will be taken against those involved in burning face motif of fascist Hasina at the fine arts faculty of Dhaka University.
After reviewing intelligence inputs, cyber monitoring, and other sources, the agency has not found any specific sabotage threats related to the celebrations, said a RAB statement today.
However, the elite force is prepared to counter any untoward incident. RAB is strengthening its monitoring efforts both on the ground and in the cyber world to prevent any attempts of sabotage or unrest.
To ensure nationwide security on Pohela Boishakh, RAB has deployed a total of 346 patrol units, including 224 pickup patrols and 122 motorcycle patrols.
As per the statement, 2,449 RAB personnel, including 413 in plain clothes, have been stationed at key points across the country.
Special attention has been given to areas in the capital where large gatherings are expected, including Ramna Batamul, TSC, Shahbagh, Suhrawardy Udyan, Hatirjheel, Manik Mia Avenue, and Shishu Academy.
Checkposts, observation posts, and patrols have been installed in and around these venues to maintain strict surveillance.
Additionally, RAB's Bomb Disposal Unit, Dog Squad, and Special Commando Force have been kept on standby to respond to any emergency. Sweeping operations are being conducted at key venues and their surrounding areas to prevent any potential threats.
Coordination efforts are also underway with public representatives and other law enforcement agencies through designated control rooms. RAB's central control room will oversee and monitor the overall security operations across the country, including Dhaka.
Furthermore, RAB's Cyber Monitoring Team is conducting round-the-clock surveillance online to detect and prevent the spread of rumors, provocative contents, or misinformations related to the Pohela Boishakh festivities.
To ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all, special measures such as mobile courts will be deployed at the main venues to prevent incidents of eve-teasing, sexual harassment, or other forms of misconduct.
