DMP directs field-level officers to intensify intelligence gathering

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has directed field-level officers to step up intelligence gathering and take preventive measures against those suspected of trying to create disorder during the upcoming 13th national election and referendum "before any incident happens".

The directive was given by DMP's high officials during its monthly crime review meeting held at the Bangladesh Police Auditorium in the capital's Rajarbagh area on Wednesday.

A high DMP official told the FE that the field-level officials were also instructed to coordinate duty with magistrates and act early if there are signs of trouble around polling centres.

He said that one of the main directives was to perform duty in coordination with magistrates.

If anyone wants to commit a crime or cause disturbance, action has to be taken. If it seems someone may try to create a gathering at a polling centre or obstruct the process, measures should be taken in advance.

The officer said the senior officials also stressed intelligence-led policing.

He said that intelligence should be collected about what fascist elements are trying to do, and action should be taken against them before an incident occurs by anticipating their moves in advance.

He said that the police were also told to use body-worn cameras and to ensure they do so properly. Everyone will use body cameras.

The police officer further said officers-in-charge (OCs) of police stations were instructed to avoid comments that could be construed as partisan.

They (OCs) have also instructed to stay away from social media activity that might influence the public.

Addressing the meeting, DMP Commissioner SM Sazzat Ali told officers to rise above party lines and deliver what he described as a flawless election.

talhabinhabib@yahoo.com