DMP ensures tight security for Feb 21

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali on Friday said there is no security threat surrounding the observance of Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day on February 21, as authorities have taken comprehensive measures to ensure a peaceful environment.

Speaking to journalists after inspecting preparations at the Central Shaheed Minar, he said a multi-layered security arrangement has been put in place, with around 15,000 police personnel deployed for the occasion. Members of other law enforcement agencies and volunteers will also remain on duty.

The commissioner said a large number of people are expected to gather at the Shaheed Minar to pay tribute to the language martyrs. He urged visitors to maintain discipline and uphold the sanctity of the monument. Special units, including SWAT, dog squads, bomb disposal teams and crime scene units, will remain on standby. Intelligence surveillance and cyber monitoring have also been strengthened.

Security coverage will extend beyond the Shaheed Minar to the entire city. Visitors have been instructed to enter through the Palashi intersection-Jagannath Hall crossing and exit via Romana crossing toward Doel Chattar or Chankharpool. Traffic diversions will be in place in the Dhaka University area from Friday evening.

Later in the day, while briefing reporters at Moulvibazar under Chawkbazar Police Station, the DMP commissioner urged business leaders to keep prices of essential commodities at a tolerable level during the holy month of Ramadan.