The flow of weapons and explosives into the Sylhet division shows no signs of abating, raising serious concerns as the national elections approach. Law enforcement agencies and election stakeholders are increasingly alarmed, prompting intensified security measures across the region.
Multiple high-level meetings have been convened to address potential election-related violence. On Thursday, separate gatherings were held with the presence of the Army Chief, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) sector commanders, and district administration officials. These meetings focused on election security, maintaining law and order, and proactive threat mitigation. On Wednesday, the Home Affairs Adviser visited Sylhet, issuing directives aimed at curbing potential unrest.
Border security has been strengthened, with additional BGB outposts and enhanced surveillance. The police and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) continue coordinated operations in both urban and rural areas. Intelligence gathering has intensified, targeting smuggling routes, storage sites, and the networks responsible for trafficking firearms and explosives. Special checkpoints have been installed along borders and riverine routes, while barricades and road inspections have been implemented on major inter-district routes.
A military demonstration involving dog squads and armoured vehicles was conducted in the city to deter potential violence and ensure readiness ahead of the elections. Out of 2,641 polling centres in Sylhet division, 362 have been designated as high-risk, with additional security measures deployed accordingly. Mobile teams, rapid response units, and strike forces have been activated, while visible patrolling has been increased day and night.
Weapons and Explosives Seized in Sylhet (Past Year)
| Item Type | Quantity Seized |
|---|---|
| Firearms (domestic & foreign) | 38 |
| Pistols, Revolvers, Rifles | Included in above |
| Airguns | 75 |
| Live ammunition (rounds) | 104 |
| Cartridges & pellets | 2,150+ |
| Magazines | 5 |
| High-grade explosives (powder & gel) | 9,625g & 9.6kg |
| Detonators (electric & non-electric) | 54 |
| Sound grenades | 1 |
| Petrol bombs | 5 |
| Bladed weapons (domestic) | Large quantities |
Political leaders have voiced concerns over the rising threat of election-related violence. Sylhet BNP election coordinator and district president Abdul Kaiyum Chowdhury emphasised that this election is a historic opportunity for democratic restoration after nearly 15 years. He called on authorities to ensure a safe environment for voters and candidates, warning that unresolved weapon stockpiles from past political turmoil could undermine the process.
Similarly, Sylhet Jamaat Amir and central committee member Muhammad Fakhrul Islam expressed deep concern over the lack of visible action against armed groups. He noted that top militants recently arrested were released on bail shortly after detention, urging law enforcement to take decisive steps.
Police Commissioner Abdul Khuddus Chowdhury assured that measures such as body-worn cameras, dog squads, drones, and monitoring apps would be deployed to ensure a secure election. RAB-9 and Sylhet Range Police confirmed ongoing intelligence-driven operations, tiered security for vulnerable polling centres, and strict border enforcement. The administration reaffirmed a zero-tolerance stance against illegal arms and any form of electoral disruption.
Authorities urged voters to exercise their franchise without fear, assuring that the city and rural areas would be under comprehensive security coverage in the lead-up to the election.