Dhaka on Lockdown Alert: Heavy Police Surround Muhammad Yunus’ Residence

Bangladesh: The interim government of Bangladesh conducted a massive security exercise in Dhaka on Saturday. The move was taken to prevent possible violent protests ahead of Awami League's proposed 'Lockdown Dhaka' campaign on November 13. Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) described it as a routine exercise, but according to sources, security has been increased after recent bomb blasts and flash marches. 

How many policemen were involved in the exercise?

About 7,000 policemen took part in the exercise at 142 important locations in Dhaka. These included the residence of interim government chief Muhammad Yunus, Bangabandhu Hall, High Court, Rashtrapati Bhavan and several major intersections. The exercise lasted from 4 to 5 pm and deployments were made in areas like Ramna, Motijheel, Mirpur, Gulshan, Tejgaon, North, Lalbagh and Wari. This exercise was carried out with coordination between all the eight divisions of DMP.

What security measures did the police adopt during the exercise?

Policemen were deployed with anti-riot gear like steel helmets, body armour. They checked bags of pedestrians, interrogated suspicious persons and inspected vehicles. “This is part of our routine activities to ensure quick response to any emergency,” said DMP spokesperson Muhammad Talebur Rahman. An unnamed official described it as a deterrent to violence as well as a check on police readiness and coordination.

What is Awami League's 'Lockdown Dhaka' program?

The disbanded Awami League announced a 'Lockdown Dhaka' event on 13 November on social media, as part of a lockdown-like protest by supporters of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This announcement was made by exiled leader Jahangir Kabir Nanak in India. 31 Awami League workers were arrested in Dhaka against this, while a total of more than 3,000 arrests have been made since last month. Despite the ban on the party, flash marches are taking place.

What is the connection of Sheikh Hasina's trial with this exercise?

On November 13, the International Criminal Tribunal (ICT-BD) is scheduled to announce the date of judgment on the trial in absentia against Sheikh Hasina, who faces charges of crimes against humanity. Hasina fled to India on 5 August 2024 after being uprooted by the student movement. The Yunus government has dissolved the Awami League unless its leaders, including Hasina, face justice. This exercise is to prevent trial-related unrest.

What impact did the partial withdrawal of the army have on the exercises?

The exercise came three days after the Army recalled half (30,000) of its 60,000 troops from 15 months of policing duty. The military cited rest and training, but promised additional force deployment for the February 2026 elections. This placed the responsibility primarily on the police, which further strengthened the practice.

What is the strategy of the Yunus government?

The interim government of Muhammad Yunus, nominated by student protesters, is suppressing Hasina's influence by banning the Awami League, rejecting bail petitions and increasing raids. Recent bomb blasts (such as at Kakrail Church and Dhanmondi) heightened vigilance. The government is calling it a part of political stability and election preparations while taking advantage of the discord between opposition parties. The exercise is the biggest security effort of the year, turning Dhaka into a fortress.