Bangladesh Tightens Airport Security Amid Terror Threat

Dhaka.  Bangladesh has tightened security at its airports following a warning of a potential attack by a suspected terrorist and two former soldiers, officials said on Monday.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) said that additional measures have been implemented at the country's eight airports, including three international terminals, following a alert from the police headquarters.

CAAB Chairman Mustafa Mahmud Siddique told reporters in Dhaka, "We have taken steps to strengthen security as per the request from the police headquarters."

He added, "Airports are designated as main entry points and security is usually kept tight here, but it has been further enhanced after receiving the letter."

Bangladesh Police had stated last week that a member of a banned militant group was in regular contact with two former soldiers.

It is reported that the attacker could use 'sharp weapons, guns or explosives' to attack key establishments including airports, parliament, and religious sites.

Bangladesh is periodically targeted by domestic militant groups inspired by Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group.

In 2016, an attack on a bakery in Dhaka resulted in the deaths of 22 people.

At the same time, militants linked to Al-Qaeda murdered several secular writers and activists, including US citizen of Bangladeshi origin Abhijit Roy.

In 2021, five people were sentenced to death for the murder of a blogger who advocated for secularism.