Staff Correspondent

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam has said security at the Biswa Ijtema ground has been strengthened considering the overall situation.

Security has been strengthened more than in previous years to ensure a safe and peaceful event, the IGP told reporters after inspecting security arrangements at the Ijtema venue in Tongi on Wednesday morning.

The first phase of Biswa Ijtema is scheduled to take place from January 31 to February 5 while the second phase from February 14 to 16.

The IGP assured that law enforcement agencies with people’s cooperation are fully prepared to prevent any subversive activities.

He also sought support from the media in this regard.

In response to journalists’ queries, the IGP expressed optimism that both factions of Ijtema organisers would act responsibly to ensure a smooth and peaceful event.

To ensure foolproof security, sufficient number of police personnel will be deployed at the Ijtema ground and surrounding areas.

Specialised units, including the Bomb Disposal Unit, SWAT team, Dog Squad, and Crime Scene Van, will be in engaged, he said.

Dedicated teams will be on duty to prevent theft, snatching, and pickpocketing, alongside river patrol units, said the IGP.

Besides, special security measures will be taken at the railway station and the entire Ijtema ground will be monitored through CCTV surveillance, with drone patrols and watchtowers.

Security screenings will be conducted at entry points using archways and handheld metal detectors.

Both uniformed and plainclothes police and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) personnel will be deployed with special arrangements for VIP movements and foreign guests attending the event.

Additional IGP (Crime and Operations) Md Akram Hossain, Gazipur Metropolitan Police (GMP) Commissioner Nazmul Karim Khan and other senior police officials were, among others , present.