DHAKA, Jan 11, 2023 (BSS) - Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun today said all-out security measures have been taken centering the Bishwa Ijtema, as its first phase will begin on January 13.

“Adequate security arrangements have been taken for smooth holding of the Bishwa Ijtema. We all the police, RAB and other law and enforcement agencies and the administration have been working together in a cordial atmosphere,” he told the journalists.

After visiting the Ijtema ground at Tongi in Gazipur, the IGP said that Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had given 160 acres of land for the Ijtema here, adding, “The present government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has developed the infrastructure and environment to increase the quality of service to the worshipers coming to Ijtema.”

He said that special measures have been taken by Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), Gazipur Metropolitan Police (GMP) and Dhaka District Police to facilitate the movement of pilgrims coming for Ijtema. 

“Car parking was arranged according to the division. Watch towers and control rooms were set up for the security of the Ijtema field. Police will perform duty in uniform and plain clothes,” Mamun said. 

He added that sector based security measures were taken. Besides, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) helicopters will be engaged in security patrolling.

The police chief said that the Immigration Department and the Traffic Division have taken special measures to facilitate the foreign nationals coming to the Ijtema.

He requested the devotees coming to the Ijtema to call the control room or the National Emergency Service 999 for necessary assistance.

Replying to a question, Chowdhury Mamun said that the Home Minister had a meeting with the leaders of both sides of Tabligh. “We also had a meeting with them. Both sides have promised us that they will hold Ijtema in a cordial atmosphere,” he added.

Responding to another question, the IGP said that policing is a challenging profession. “We have to work constantly to face challenges. Police have the ability to face any challenge with its training and experience.”

Special Branch Chief and Additional IGP Md Monirul Islam, Additional IGP Md Atiqul Islam, Tourist Police Chief and Additional IGP Habibur Rahman, Gazipur Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mollah Nazrul Islam, Dhaka Range DIG Syed Nurul Islam, senior police officers and Tabligh leaders were present during the security visit. 

Later, the IGP unveiled a book cover titled on 'Security Plan'. 

The second phase of the Ijtema will be held on January 20-22.