Staff Reporter :
In response to recent security threats, Police Headquarters has issued directives to all police stations, including those in the Dhaka Metropolitan areas, to bolster security measures.
A comprehensive 19-point circular mandates that at least one in three inspectors is on duty each night across all stations in the country. The circular also requires the installation of three permanent sentry posts at every police station, with double the number of sentries on duty during nighttime hours. Sentries are instructed to keep their arms and ammunition on hand and remain vigilant.
The new security protocols follow incidents in which the Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF) reportedly plundered arms from police and Ansar forces in Bandarban. This has prompted an increased focus on preventing further such incidents.
Specific measures outlined include prohibiting police personnel from accepting food from unknown sources and ensuring that firearms and ammunition are securely managed, especially for patrol teams. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has been specifically instructed to enhance security at police stations, outposts, and other police facilities.
A circular from DMP Commissioner Habibur Rahman issued on Tuesday also underscores the importance of patrol teams being ready to respond swiftly to any emergencies. Patrol teams are advised to stay close to police stations for quick deployment.
Additionally, the circular stipulates that senior officers, including the zonal deputy commissioner, additional deputy commissioners, and assistant commissioners, are to rotate through overnight monitoring duties to oversee the effectiveness of the patrol teams.
In terms of emergency response, the alarm system is to be kept updated and functional, with clear markings in all police station areas to guide officers during crises. Upon any security threat, the duty officer, sentry, or constable must activate the alarm, with all personnel prepared to respond fully equipped.
The directive also emphasizes the need for immediate communication across units if a police station or outpost comes under attack, ensuring a coordinated and rapid response to any such incidents.
