Bangladesh tightens security ahead of anniversary of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s assassination

Rapid Action Battalion has tightened security nationwide ahead of Aug. 15, citing possible sabotage and disruption by organizations whose activities are banned, extremist groups and criminals.

Aug. 15 marks the anniversary of the 1975 assassination of Bangladesh’s founding leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and was formerly observed as National Mourning Day before the public holiday was abolished in 2024.

The force said each battalion assessed threats and prepared security plans for its area. Additional personnel and plainclothes intelligence teams have been deployed at sensitive locations and along routes to and from event venues.

Rapid Action Battalion has also intensified surveillance of suspected individuals and groups and strengthened cyber patrols against rumors and misinformation.

Its bomb disposal unit is on standby. The force urged citizens to report suspicious people, objects or activity, saying the measures are intended to maintain order and public safety.