The capital witnessed heightened security on the eve of 13th parliamentary election and referendum, scheduled for today (Thursday).
Additional number of law enforcers, supported by the members of Armed Forces and paramilitary personnel, has been deployed at various strategic locations in the city to ensure a congenial polling atmosphere and prevent any untoward incidents ahead of the voting.
The nation goes to polls in 299 out of 300 constituencies across the country today as the Election Commission earlier postponed the election in the Sherpur-3 constituency following the death of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Nuruzzaman Badal.
As part of the security measures, the law enforcers setup check posts, keeping close eyes on the movements of passing vehicles and people.
After visiting various places in the capital city on Wednesday, the heightened security arrangements were observed with law enforcers searching vehicles and frisking suspicious individuals.
They were seen stopping private cars, questioning passengers as part of the tight security measures ahead of polling.
Such intensified patrolling by the security officials were also seen in areas like Manik Mia Avenue, Kawran Bazar, Mirpur, Uttara, Rampura, Banani, Mohakhali, Gulistan and Badda.
Since Wednesday early morning, vehicular movements in the city remained relatively very thin, as many dwellers had already left Dhaka for their respective village homes to cast votes.
Deputy Commissioner (Media) at the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Muhammad Talebur Rahman said a total of 26,515 police personnel have been deployed across the capital to ensure maximum security during the national election and referendum.
Mr. Talebur disclosed the information while talking to journalists at his Minto Road office on the day.
He said the DMP has taken the highest level of security measures in the capital.
Apart from securing the polling centres, striking forces, mobile teams and reserve forces will remain deployed outside the centres, he said, adding that the specialised Bomb Disposal Unit, SWAT, K-9 Unit and crime scene vans would also remain vigilant.
The deputy commissioner further said checkpoints and patrolling activities have been intensified across Dhaka ahead of the election. Although there is no specific threat, the police official said, their officials remain on high alert.
"We hope that the election will be held in a congenial and fair environment," he said.
Reassuring the voters, he mentioned that the people need to come to polling centres and exercise their fundamental rights without concern, fear, or obstruction.
Responding to a question about any possible threat from any quarter, he said they have not noticed any threat yet.
"But, we are fully prepared, and police are on maximum alert," said Mr. Talebur.
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