World Ijtema security tightened: Over 7,000 police officers deployed

In preparation for the upcoming World Ijtema, Bangladesh’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), Baharul Alam, has announced that security will be significantly stronger this year. 

The authorities are fully prepared to prevent any disturbances, with security forces on high alert.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday at the Ijtema grounds in Gazipur around 11:30 AM, the IGP confirmed that approximately 7,000 law enforcement personnel would be assigned to ensure safety throughout the event. 

He stressed, 

"For the first time, along with briefings for law enforcement officers, booklets have been distributed. This will allow the security personnel to play an even stronger role in maintaining order and safety."

Dr. Nazmul Karim Khan, the Commissioner of Gazipur Metropolitan Police (GMP), shared more details about the security setup. 

He mentioned that 16 watch towers would be placed around the Ijtema grounds, which would be divided into five sectors for better organization.

The entire area will be monitored through CCTV cameras, and additional security measures like 20 mobile units and 20 checkpoints will also be in place.

The Commissioner also announced that starting from January 31 to February 2, vehicles carrying goods will be restricted from using highways in an effort to prevent traffic disruptions.

Before the briefing, IGP Alam visited the Ijtema grounds to inspect key areas, including the speaker’s stage and foreigner’s tents, accompanied by senior police officials.

As part of the enhanced security, the authorities have deployed not just police and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) members but also specialized units like bomb disposal teams, SWAT forces, dog squads, crime scene vans, and even naval and helicopter patrols. 

The entire event will be monitored by a network of CCTV, IP, and night vision cameras, while both uniformed and plainclothes police officers will be stationed across all sectors. 

The goal is to ensure that the entire Ijtema ground remains secure throughout the event.