Tensions escalated in the capital city as security forces bolstered measures in anticipation of the Awami League’s “Dhaka Lockdown” initiative. The heightened vigilance coincided with the pending announcement by the International Crimes Tribunal-1 concerning the verdict date for the trial involving former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on charges of crimes against humanity.
Recent days have seen a surge in arson and crude bomb incidents across the city, causing alarm among residents amidst the latest political upheaval following the AL government’s collapse on August 5 last year. Law enforcement authorities have significantly increased security presence in Dhaka, including the establishment of additional checkpoints and intensified vehicle and pedestrian searches. Notably, police presence has been reinforced at key locations throughout the city.
In addition to police and army personnel, members of the Border Guard Bangladesh have been deployed in Dhaka, Gazipur, and Narayanganj. Various political parties and student groups have declared their stance against any efforts by the AL and its affiliates to disrupt stability, announcing plans for rallies in Dhaka and major divisional cities to counter any potential resurgence of the banned AL.
Meanwhile, the International Crimes Tribunal-1, led by Justice Golam Mortuza Mozumder, is expected to reveal the verdict date in the case involving Hasina. Alongside Hasina, the trial includes former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun as co-accused. Allegations during the trial have accused Hasina of orchestrating mass killings, leading to charges of crimes against humanity under Bangladeshi law, with prosecutors seeking the death penalty for a guilty verdict.
Hasina has refuted all accusations, labeling her trial as a “judicial farce.” Notably, the former IGP confessed and turned state witness during the trial, marking a significant development since the tribunal’s inception in 2010.
Despite tightened security measures, multiple incidents of arson and crude bomb attacks were recorded in Dhaka, Gazipur, and Brahmanbaria. These incidents included attacks on various public and private properties, such as a Grameen Bank branch in Brahmanbaria and buses in different areas. The unrest continued throughout the day with further attacks on vehicles and public transport, causing disruptions and raising concerns among the populace.
Moreover, authorities made several arrests, including members of the AL, in connection with the recent incidents. Police efforts led to the apprehension of individuals possessing crude bombs, petrol bombs, and bomb-making materials, indicating a proactive approach to maintaining law and order amidst the escalating tensions in the region.