The security arrangements for this year’s World Ijtema are tighter than ever, with over 7,000 law enforcement personnel deployed, along with additional measures including drones and surveillance cameras to ensure a smooth and secure event. The authorities have ensured that strict vigilance will be maintained to prevent any disturbances during the event.
In a press briefing held on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at the Gaziur Metropolitan Police control room near the foreign guest area of the Ijtema ground, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam emphasized the heightened security for this year’s World Ijtema, which is set to begin on Friday. The IGP stated that the law enforcement presence this year would be far greater than in previous editions of the event.
Around 7,000 law enforcement personnel, including members of the police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and other security forces, will be on duty throughout the Ijtema grounds. In addition, the event will benefit from the vigilance of nearly 10,000 volunteers deployed by the Tablighi Jamaat, who will assist with the overall safety measures.
The authorities have installed 335 CCTV cameras around the Ijtema field, and the event will also be monitored using drones for real-time surveillance. To further increase security, the RAB will patrol the area with helicopters, while the Navy’s River Police will use speedboats to patrol the Turag River. Twenty checkpoints have been set up around the Ijtema venue, and watchtowers will provide additional oversight using binoculars to monitor any unusual activity.
In addition to the visible security measures, plainclothes police officers will be deployed in various sections of the Ijtema to ensure smooth operations and to respond swiftly to any emergencies.
IGP Baharul Alam reassured the public that the authorities are well-prepared to maintain law and order throughout the event. He expressed confidence that the event would be held safely, with all necessary measures taken to prevent any disruptions. The Ijtema will take place in two phases: the first phase will run from January 31 to February 6, and the second phase, for the Saad group, will take place from February 14 to 16.
Liberty News’ national affairs correspondent reports that the press briefing was attended by several high-ranking police officers, including Additional IGP Md. Akram Hossain, Police Commissioner of Gazipur Metropolitan Dr. Md. Nazmul Karim Khan, and various officers from the local police and RAB units. Also present were leaders from the Tablighi Jamaat and local political representatives.
LND/BAIZID
