Dhaka, Oct 30 (V7N) – Bangladesh is navigating a precarious path as political, technological, and security challenges converge ahead of next year’s national elections. The country is confronting escalating threats involving illegal arms imports, misuse of artificial intelligence (AI), and efforts to destabilize the political landscape.

The National Consensus Commission recently submitted a recommendation package to the Advisory Council, including Dr. Muhammad Yunus, concerning the implementation of the July Accord. The proposals aim to strengthen democratic practices, judicial accountability, and electoral reforms. While the initiative has sparked discussions across various sectors about its potential benefits and risks, other developments indicate growing instability.

Authorities have intercepted multiple arms shipments coming from India and Myanmar, in addition to firearms looted during the August 5 incidents and subsequent police armories. The Ministry of Home Affairs, operating quietly to avoid public panic, has initiated several measures, with more to be revealed after coordinated raids.

Security experts warn that the misuse of AI may pose threats as severe as conventional weapons, potentially influencing voter perception or inciting unrest during the electoral process. Plans to establish a central cell to combat misinformation and disinformation are underway, though doubts remain about its effectiveness in countering sophisticated campaigns.

In one significant operation, the army seized foreign weapons and explosives from the Bonolata Express at Dhaka Airport Railway Station. Acting on precise intelligence, security forces recovered eight pistols, 14 magazines, 26 rounds of ammunition, 2.39 kg of gunpowder, and 2.23 kg of plastic explosives from a designated train carriage. The train operates daily on the Dhaka-Rajshahi route except Fridays, highlighting the sophistication of the operation.

Authorities have linked these preparations to attempts by foreign and domestic actors to disrupt the political process, particularly in anticipation of a fair and peaceful election. Intelligence reports indicate that important state facilities may also be targeted. As a precaution, metropolitan, range, and district police units have been alerted, and the army is expected to play a more active role in preventing illegal arms circulation.

Despite ongoing operations, over a thousand weapons stolen during various incidents, including 32 high-powered firearms looted from the SSF and government offices, remain unaccounted for. Investigations reveal that some weapons used during last year’s nationwide student and public protests were provided by ruling party affiliates and allegedly passed through hill insurgents. Many perpetrators remain at large, using online and offline platforms to spread fear.

Meanwhile, Chinese-developed “DeepSik AI” models have reportedly been imported into the country, raising additional concerns about AI-enabled disinformation campaigns capable of influencing elections and public opinion. Officials note that these models demonstrate capabilities that rival globally recognized AI systems, including OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, making them a new vector for potential manipulation.

The Home Ministry and security agencies remain optimistic that coordinated operations involving the army, police, and auxiliary forces will intercept most illegal arms before elections. However, officials caution that the evolving security and technological landscape presents unprecedented challenges for maintaining law and order in Bangladesh.

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