DHAKA, Jan 6, (V7N) –Multiple layers of special security measures have been implemented at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport as BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia prepares to depart for London on Tuesday for medical treatment.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has taken this special precaution to ensure that the presence of a large number of BNP leaders and activists at the airport does not disrupt security.
Outside the airport (landside), Airport Armed Police will be joined by members of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), Detective Branch (DB), and special units like SWAT to ensure security.
CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Mofidur Rahman Bhuiyan told Bangla Tribune: "Begum Khaleda Zia will leave Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport for London at 10pm on Tuesday for medical reasons. We anticipate that BNP leaders and activists will come to the airport during this time. To ensure that their presence does not create any security issues, all necessary arrangements have been made. I have personally inspected some key locations. AVSEC, APBn, and other law enforcement agencies will also be deployed for security.”
He further said: “Maximum arrangements will be in place to ensure that she (Khaleda Zia) faces no issues inside or outside the airport. Additionally, we will take all necessary measures to ensure that other passengers coming to the airport face no security concerns.”
According to sources, the main crowd of BNP leaders and activists is expected to gather outside the airport.
The Airport Armed Police Battalion will play a key role in managing the situation in that area, supported by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police and Rapid Action Battalion.
Plainclothes intelligence agency personnel will also be present.
Airport officials said that three layers of security have been reinforced both inside and outside the airport.
Shihab Kaiser Khan, the commanding officer of the Airport Armed Police, told Bangla Tribune: “From Tuesday morning, additional members will be deployed. Our personnel will cover the entire airport area with a security blanket. Alongside additional personnel, the Quick Response Team and Dog Squad will be deployed. Searches will be conducted if anyone appears suspicious.”
He further said: “We expect a large number of leaders and activists in the area. Keeping that in mind, we have taken measures to ensure security outside the airport. We also have plans in place to manage traffic so that the presence of leaders and activists does not cause road congestion.”
Notably, Khaleda Zia will leave Dhaka for London at 10pm on Tuesday on a special air ambulance flight sent by the Emir of Qatar.
END/MSS/AJ
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