The government has stepped up security measures following a series of cocktail explosions and vehicle arson attacks in Dhaka and other parts of the country, viewing the incidents as planned acts of sabotage. Meanwhile, the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is preparing to remain politically active throughout December to address the situation.

Government policymakers suspect that the incidents are aimed at creating instability surrounding former prime minister Sheikh Hasina's reported announcement of plans to return to Bangladesh and putting pressure on the government for political concessions.

However, government sources say the authorities are not unsettled by the developments and are taking maximum precautions to prevent further sabotage.

According to figures from the Police Headquarters and Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), 22 vehicles were set on fire across the country during the 24 hours from Monday morning to Tuesday morning.

In addition, cocktail explosions were reported at at least 28 locations in Dhaka and six other districts. Of these, the DMP received reports of explosions at 19 locations in the capital.

Police sources allege that several leaders of the banned Awami League living abroad are encouraging and financing sabotage activities in Bangladesh.

According to the sources, individuals recently arrested in connection with incidents in Mirpur and other parts of Dhaka provided information during interrogation about instructions from party leaders and financial transactions linked to the alleged activities.

Security Forces Directed to Prevent Sabotage

On Tuesday, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ali Hossain Fakir held an online meeting with superintendents of police from all 64 districts, metropolitan police commissioners and deputy inspectors general of police from different ranges.

During the meeting, he instructed law enforcement agencies to identify and arrest those involved in sabotage, strengthen patrols and increase intelligence surveillance.

As part of additional security measures, instructions were also given to deploy extra police personnel in Gopalganj, Shariatpur, Madaripur and Faridpur.

However, the IGP cautioned against indiscriminate arrests. Superintendents of police from several districts told Prothom Alo that he had emphasised identifying and arresting actual perpetrators while ensuring that innocent people were not harassed.

BNP Preparing for December-long Political Activities

Alongside the security concerns, the ruling BNP is preparing to remain active on the ground throughout December to address the evolving political situation.

According to the report, the party plans to respond to the developments through political programmes and activities during the month.

Source: Prothom Alo