No Specific Threat for Pahela Baishakh, but RAB Ready for Any Sabotage: DG

Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) Director General Md. Ahsan Habib Palash announced on Monday that while there is no specific security threat ahead of the Pahela Baishakh celebrations, the elite force remains on high alert to tackle any potential sabotage.

Following a comprehensive inspection of security arrangements at Ramna Batamul in the capital, the RAB chief briefed reporters on the nationwide safety measures. 

To ensure a peaceful and festive environment, RAB has deployed all 15 of its battalions across the country. 

A dedicated force of 308 patrol teams—comprising 181 pickup patrol units and 127 motorcycle teams—will remain active in the field until all New Year programs conclude.

In Dhaka, special security protocols have been established at high-traffic venues, including Ramna Batamul, Shahbagh, TSC, Suhrawardy Udyan, Rabindra Sarobar, Hatirjheel, Manik Mia Avenue, and Bangla Academy. 

These areas will see a combination of checkposts, observation posts, and intensified intelligence surveillance by plainclothes officers.

To preempt any disruptive activities, specialized bomb disposal units and dog squads are currently conducting sweeping operations and will remain on standby throughout the festivities. 

Nationwide measures also include the establishment of central control rooms, foot patrols, and 24-hour CCTV monitoring.

The Director General emphasized that strict monitoring is in place to curb the spread of rumors or provocative misinformation on social media. 

Furthermore, he highlighted that special measures have been enacted to ensure the safety of women and prevent any instances of harassment or eve-teasing at celebration sites.

Urging public cooperation, the RAB chief called on citizens to immediately report any suspicious activities or security concerns to law enforcement. 

He expressed his confidence that this year’s Pahela Baishakh would be celebrated with the same festive spirit and peace as seen in previous years.