Brigadier (Retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam, chief security officer for BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, has confirmed that the government has not been requested to deploy the Special Security Force (SSF) for Tarique’s homecoming.
Speaking at a press briefing at the BNP chairperson’s office in Gulshan on Wednesday, Shamsul Islam said, “The government is providing all necessary support for Tarique Rahman’s security. The preparations in place far exceed any potential risk.”
He added that concerns about Tarique’s safety have circulated in political and social media circles for some time, particularly during previous periods when he could not return to Bangladesh even in family emergencies.
The topic resurfaced recently as social media and certain news outlets speculated about the possible involvement of the SSF during his return on 25 December.
Shamsul Islam clarified that no such request was made and emphasised that the existing security arrangements are sufficient to ensure his protection.
The announcement comes ahead of Tarique’s return from London after more than 17 years in exile, a highly anticipated event accompanied by extensive security planning and public reception programmes.
