Dhaka has been placed under severe security strain after a series of crude bomb explosions rocked the capital in the hours leading up to a high-stakes verdict in the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) trial of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. In response, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has issued a shoot-on-sight order for anyone caught carrying out bomb attacks or arson, officials confirmed.
DMP Commissioner Sheikh Mohammad Sajjat Ali told Dhaka Tribune that he has instructed officers to “protect life and property” and to open fire “on those who set vehicles on fire or throw crude bombs.” He echoed the same message to The Daily Star, saying that the order adheres to legal provisions.
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Violence surges ahead of ICT verdict
The heightened order comes as Dhaka reels from violence and unrest. Since early Sunday, security forces have deployed in force across the city. Multiple agencies including the Border Guard Bangladesh, Rapid Action Battalion, Armed Police Battalion, and intelligence units have joined local police to encircle key areas, especially the ICT and High Court zone.
In recent days, police reported over 30 crude bomb explosions and dozens of arson attacks targeting buses and vehicles across Dhaka and other districts. The Awami League, whose activities remain officially banned, called for a two-day shutdown beginning from Sunday to protest what it describes as a politically motivated trial.
Commissioner Sajjat Ali defended the shoot-on-sight directive as necessary in the face of coordinated violence. “Those who throw cocktails or set fire to buses are threatening lives and they must face lawful action,” he said, as quoted by Dhaka Tribune.
Security measures intensify
Authorities have increased patrols and established checkpoints in major Dhaka neighbourhoods, around the area of Dhaka University, Shahbagh, Motijheel, Gulistan, and Press Club, in an effort to stop any further further violence. Armoured vehicles, rooftop surveillance teams, and mobile scanners are also in place near the tribunal and High Court zone.
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According to DMP officials, “not even an inch of the capital” will be left unmonitored. Meanwhile, they have urged citizens to avoid unnecessary movement and remain calm while security remains on high alert.
The unstable situation highlights a sharp political division and the possibility of more violence as the country prepares for the tribunal's verdict, which is set for Monday.
