Bangla police chief warns Opposition of tough action

The 14-party opposition alliance, led by the Awami League, is planning a blockade in Dhaka as part of an anti-Govt campaign.

The Bangladesh's police chief has warned opposition parties against any unruly action and blocking of traffic movement, saying that it would be dealt with an iron hand.

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As part of its anti-government campaign, the 14-party opposition alliance led by former prime minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed's Awami League, prepared to lay a siege of Dhaka on Sunday.

"Police would do whatever required to keep the law and order situation under control," Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abdul Qaiyum told reporters.

During the opposition's protest programme, 15,000 additional forces would be deployed at the strategic places to ward off any untoward incident.

The IGP, earlier, held a meeting with all senior police officials. He also had a meeting in the Home Ministry.

Besides, police strengthened its mass arrest drive across the city and set up several temporary check posts at the city entrances. The highway police have been directed to remain alert.

Some 5000 people have been arrested during the past several days, media reports said.

The IGP denied the allegation of "mass arrest" and said police would do whatever required for the smooth transport movement.

The opposition alliance has vowed to paralyse Dhaka by blocking all roads, rail and waterways leading to the capital to force electoral reforms and resignation of Chief Election Commissioner, Justice MA Aziz.