Bangladesh Police Headquarters on Friday warned of a coordinated smear campaign on Facebook and other social media platforms targeting senior police officials and key government figures, urging the public not to believe or spread rumours.
In a press release, the Police Headquarters said a "vested quarter" has been disseminating fabricated, misleading and provocative content to create public confusion.
It alleged that "the ousted fascist forces and their local and foreign allies" were behind the campaign to destabilise law and order, undermine police morale and tarnish the government's image.
According to the statement, the propaganda intensified after Bangladesh Police launched strict legal action against banned political organisations and refused what it described as "unlawful lobbying" by those involved.
The Police Headquarters also claimed to have evidence that some individuals behind the campaign are accused in various criminal cases, attempted to influence police and other government agencies, and demanded money in exchange for refraining from spreading defamatory content.
Urging citizens to act responsibly, the police called on the public not to believe, share or circulate misleading and provocative posts on social media, stressing the need to prevent rumours and disinformation.
It warned that anyone found involved in such propaganda would face strict legal action under existing laws.
Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining law and order, the Police Headquarters said Bangladesh Police would continue to perform its duties with professionalism, dedication and public cooperation, while seeking greater public vigilance against disinformation campaigns.
