The Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) has issued directives to monitor bars across the country to ensure compliance with regulations.
The monitoring covers operating hours, lighting, music, permits, and the sale of alcohol. Officials said investigations are ongoing, but no violations have been detected so far.
The directive follows a fatal incident on 14 October, when businessman Dabirul Islam, 51, was assaulted outside Bliss Art Lounge Limited Bar and Restaurant in Gulshan-1 and later died in hospital.
Authorities have also raised concerns about bars adopting nightclub-style environments that may foster criminal activity.
In addition, the management of bars at Fars Hotel and Resorts and Razmoni Isha Hotel in Bijoynagar has come under scrutiny, with allegations of irregularities against some DNC officials, including Inspector Zakir Hossain of the relevant zone.
Speaking to TIMES of Bangladesh on Thursday, Shamim Ahmed, deputy director of the DNC Dhaka Metro North Office, said the headquarters issued an office order after the Gulshan incident, directing intensified monitoring of all bars. Four inspection teams have been formed across two circles to conduct regular checks, including at Fars and Rajmoni Isha Hotels.
Repeated attempts to reach Inspector Zakir Hossain of the Ramna Circle via phone and WhatsApp for comment were unsuccessful.
