Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan on Sunday visited Charfession and Bhola to review field-level security arrangements ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum, aimed at ensuring a free, fair, neutral and peaceful voting process.
The Bangladesh Navy has been deployed in aid of civil authorities across 17 parliamentary constituencies, covering 24 upazilas and two city corporations.
During the visit, the Navy chief inspected the overall activities, preparedness and security measures of naval contingents assigned to election duties.
Admiral M Nazmul Hassan also held coordination meetings with representatives of the civil administration, law enforcement agencies and election officials.
The meetings were attended by the district commissioner, superintendent of police, civil surgeon, additional deputy commissioners and magistrates, district election officer, senior officials of district and upazila-level government offices, as well as representatives from the Fire Service and Civil Defence, BIWTA, RAB, Coast Guard, Ansar and the Navy.
At the meetings, emphasis was placed on inter-agency coordination and strengthening overall security to ensure the election is conducted peacefully and impartially.
The Navy chief urged all concerned to work collectively so that voters can cast their ballots without fear or intimidation.
He instructed officials to closely monitor polling centres, maintain law and order and ensure voter safety with utmost vigilance. He also provided necessary directives after reviewing the operational activities of naval units on the ground.
To enhance security in coastal and island areas, naval ships have been deployed in Bhola, Hatiya, Sandwip, Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin’s Island, supported by an adequate number of patrol boats.
Surveillance has been intensified using modern technology, including drones and body-worn cameras, to prevent violence, unrest or any subversive activities.
In addition, the Navy is conducting special operations to recover illegal arms and ammunition, alongside regular patrols and foot patrols in assigned areas. Naval ships, helicopters, Quick Response Forces (QRF) and SWADS teams have been kept on standby to respond swiftly to any emerging situation.
The Bangladesh Navy reiterated its commitment to supporting the local administration and relevant authorities to ensure voter security and the successful conduct of a peaceful, free and credible election.
