Security stepped up at all eight airports, including Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International, following police intelligence on possible attacks by banned militant groups targeting key installations.
Bangladesh has heightened security across all its airports after authorities received intelligence warnings of possible militant attacks, officials said on Monday.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) issued a high alert at the country’s eight airports, including the three international terminals, after receiving a directive from police headquarters about potential threats to strategic sites.
Heavily armed security personnel in riot gear were visible at Terminal-2 of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, where passengers and journalists reported increased checks and patrols.
Enhanced Security Measures Rolled Out Across Bangladesh:
CAAB Chairman Mostafa Mahmud Siddiq confirmed that enhanced security protocols have been implemented in line with the police alert.
“We have received a letter from the police headquarters asking us to strengthen security. Accordingly, we have issued a security alert,” he told reporters.
The measures include intensified surveillance, additional deployment of law enforcement, and stricter passenger and baggage screening at key points. Similar alerts have been issued for other critical infrastructure, including government buildings and places of worship.
Heightened Security Alert Amid Credible Militant Threat in Bangladesh:
The alert follows the recent arrest of a suspected operative linked to a banned militant outfit, with intelligence suggesting possible coordinated attacks involving former military personnel.
Bangladesh has a history of sporadic militant attacks, including the 2016 Dhaka cafe siege that killed 20 hostages. While the country has significantly curbed large-scale jihadist operations in recent years, concerns persist over underground networks and radicalisation.
Authorities have not specified the exact nature of the latest threat but described it as credible enough to warrant nationwide precautions.
Officials urged the public to remain calm, stressing that the heightened alert is precautionary. Flights continue as normal, though passengers may face delays due to increased security checks.
Amid broader concerns in Bangladesh, authorities have called on citizens to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity, assuring that measures are in place to protect public areas and transport hubs.