DMP intensifies security measures for Eid celebrations: DMP

Speaking to the media after inspecting preparations at the National Eidgah, DMP Commissioner Mosleh Uddin Ahmed said that only 10 to 15 percent of police personnel in Dhaka Metropolitan City have been granted leave due to heightened security arrangements for Eid.

Responding to a question about possible threats to the Eid congregation, the commissioner said, “Regarding threats, various provocative campaigns may be carried out, particularly in cyberspace, and we are vigilant about that. Our cyber patrol team is monitoring the situation around the clock.”

The DMP commissioner highlighted several security measures, including special searches at the entrances of the National Eidgah, installation of watch towers to monitor the situation, drone surveillance, intelligence monitoring by plainclothes officers alongside uniformed police, and standby teams from SWAT, the Bomb Disposal Unit, and the Counter Terrorism Unit. Fire service personnel, emergency medical teams, a police sub-control room, and a lost-and-found centre have also been arranged inside the National Eidgah premises.

“The DMP has a special request for devotees. Those coming to the Eidgah should arrive with sufficient time in hand and cooperate with Dhaka Metropolitan Police during security checks,” the commissioner said.

“Devotees arriving by car are requested to enter the Eidgah on foot from the roadblock area and park their vehicles in designated places. Everyone is also requested to follow traffic diversion and parking instructions around the National Eidgah.”

The commissioner further said, “We request worshippers to bring only prayer mats and umbrellas if necessary. Please do not bring bags, sharp objects, fixed metal objects, or unnecessary metallic items.”

“We also request everyone to leave the venue in an orderly manner after the congregational prayer without rushing. If anyone notices anything suspicious, they are requested to immediately inform the police officer on duty or contact the national emergency service, 999.”

Security for houses and commercial establishments

The commissioner said separate security measures have been formulated for vacant homes and commercial areas during the Eid holidays.

“As many residential and commercial areas of the city remain vacant during Eid holidays, we have strengthened security through mobile patrols, foot patrols, and motorcycle patrols. The situation is also being monitored through CCTVsurveillance,” he said.

“Checkpoints are being set up at important locations. Community policing and beat policing activities have been further strengthened. Special surveillance is being carried out at banks, ATM booths, shopping malls, markets, and other important establishments. Security personnel at residential and commercial areas are also being supervised. Intelligence surveillance on suspicious persons and vehicles has been increased.”

Cyber unit active round the clock

The DMP commissioner said, “In the current context, DMP’s Cyber Unit is monitoring activities round the clock to prevent the spread of rumours, propaganda, and confusion through social media. Any attempt to spread rumours, provocative propaganda, or create law and order deterioration will be dealt with strictly.”

“Dhaka Metropolitan Police is performing its duties with utmost professionalism, sincerity, and caution to protect the lives and property of city residents and ensure a peaceful celebration of Eid.The media always plays a very important role in raising public awareness. I hope you will cooperate in properly conveying DMP’s security instructions to the public.”

Before the briefing, the DMP commissioner, along with Local Government State Minister Mir Shahe Alam and Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator Abdus Salam, inspected the latest preparations at the National Eidgah, reports UNB.