The Dhaka Metropolitan Police has issued an official clarification following media reports and public discussion alleging that the police commissioner’s convoy violated traffic regulations during its movement in the capital. The force described the coverage as “misleading” and based on incomplete interpretation of the actual situation.
In a press statement issued on Thursday night, the DMP emphasised that the narrative presented in several reports did not accurately reflect on-the-ground conditions. According to the clarification, Minto Road is not a one-way street but a dual carriageway open to regulated bi-directional traffic flow. The statement further explained that temporary plastic barricades have recently been installed as part of an experimental traffic management initiative designed to improve vehicular circulation in the area.
The police noted that this arrangement is not a permanent restriction but a flexible system adjusted according to traffic conditions. Barricades may be opened or repositioned depending on operational requirements, and such experimental measures have been in use intermittently as part of broader traffic engineering assessments in the city.
Addressing the allegations directly, the DMP stated that the movement of the commissioner’s convoy was conducted under the supervision and guidance of designated traffic personnel. It categorically denied any breach of traffic regulations or the granting of special privileges for the convoy’s passage. The force stressed that all procedures were followed in accordance with standard operational protocols.
The statement also criticised certain media portrayals, arguing that some reports suggested a complete closure of a public road exclusively for the commissioner’s convoy. The police maintained that this representation was inaccurate and had the potential to create unnecessary public misunderstanding regarding routine traffic operations.
Highlighting the importance of responsible journalism, the DMP urged media outlets to verify facts thoroughly before publishing reports, particularly on sensitive issues involving law enforcement activities. It reiterated that accurate and balanced reporting plays a vital role in maintaining public trust and ensuring informed public discourse.
The controversy has also generated significant discussion on social media platforms. While some users have raised concerns about transparency in traffic management practices, others have accepted the police explanation and viewed the incident as a routine operational matter that was misinterpreted.
Summary of Key Points
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Authority involved | Dhaka Metropolitan Police |
| Location | Minto Road |
| Main allegation | Alleged traffic law violation by convoy |
| Police position | No violation; movement conducted under supervision |
| Traffic arrangement | Experimental barricade-based traffic control |
| Status of system | Temporary and adjustable, not permanent restriction |
| Public response | Mixed views on social media |
The DMP concluded by expressing hope that future reporting on similar incidents would be more carefully verified, ensuring that public perception is not shaped by partial or unverified information.