Security tightened amid public concern over 'Dhaka Lockdown'

The government has tightened security in Dhaka and across the country amid rising public concern after miscreants reportedly set fire to several establishments and buses this week.
Crude bombs (cocktails) were also thrown at schools and other institutions, alarming office workers, students, parents, and businesspeople.
Law-enforcement agencies suspect these incidents are linked to the "Dhaka Lockdown" programme announced for Thursday by Awami League, the political party whose activities are now banned.
According to police sources, on Wednesday, unidentified individuals allegedly set fire to a Grameen Bank branch in Bijoynagar, Brahmanbaria, after dousing it with petrol.
In Gazipur, three buses were torched in separate incidents in Sreepur, Bhogra Bypass, and Chakrabarti areas between Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning. While no casualties were reported in these cases, a bus driver was killed earlier this week when arsonists set fire to a parked bus in Mymensingh.
In Dhaka, multiple buses have been set ablaze in recent days, and crude bombs have targeted political offices. Civilians and business leaders have urged authorities to swiftly identify the perpetrators, warning that continued violence could disrupt trade and livelihoods.
"Political violence has become a serious problem for city dwellers and threatens our safety. We want our children to be safe and hope this crisis is resolved soon," said Habibul Bashar, a parent.
"I'm a bus driver and not involved in politics," said Jasim, a Dhaka driver. "My family depends on my daily earnings, but these arson attacks have made me terrified. If I'm injured or killed, who will take care of my family?"
By Wednesday evening, Dhaka's streets appeared unusually empty, with fewer cars and pedestrians. Parents expressed concern for their children attending schools, colleges, and universities, with many considering keeping them home temporarily.
Crude bombs were reportedly hurled at Saint Joseph School and College in Dhaka, and two petrol bombs at Mohammadpur Preparatory School on Iqbal Road, leaving school authorities and parents alarmed. Some schools have announced plans to move classes online on November 13.
The recent arson attacks have also created fear among commuters and office-goers. "I must go to work, but I'm afraid these miscreants might harm innocent people. The journey no longer feels safe," said Faridur Reza, a private employee.
He added, "If the police conducted regular searches across the city, these risks could be greatly reduced."
Business leaders warned that continued unrest could affect the economy. "Of course, we are concerned, but we don't think this will become a major problem. We are optimistic the government will bring the situation under control. We are still operating to some extent," said Mohammad Hatem, president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA).
Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Mohammad Sajjat Ali said, "CCTV footage shows members of a banned political party, wearing helmets and masks, setting off crude bombs at targeted locations -- either early morning or during peak hours -- before fleeing."
"In some cases, underage individuals were used. There were also instances of bombs thrown from motorcycles, but there is no cause for panic. Identification and arrest of those involved are underway."

tonmoy.wardad@gmail.com