Fear of fresh attack in Bangladesh

March 18, 2009

http://www.weeklyblitz.net/211/fear-of-fresh-attack-in-bangladesh

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has instructed intelligence agencies in the country to remain at highest alert from the possible threat of fresh terrorist attack by the Islamist militancy groups or leftist terror groups in the country.

It may be mentioned here that, a unique 'Red-Green' alliance was formed within the Islamists and Leftist terror groups in a number of countries in the world. In Bangladesh, although attention of intelligence agencies are focused on various suspected Islamist and militancy groups, leftist terror groups within the South-Eastern areas in the country are gradually gaining strength.

The security threat in Bangladesh went to the highest level when more than few hundred Arges grenades as well as unknown number of weapons and ammunitions disappeared from the vault of Bangladesh Riffles during the February 25-25 Massacre. According to newspaper reports, huge segment of such disappeared or looted arms, ammunitions and explosives went into the hands of various armed cadres belonging to political parties as well as Islamist militancy groups and leftist terror outfits.

Purbo-Banglar Communist Party, Sarbahara Party [Marxist-Leninist], Communist Party [Red Flag], Purbo Bangla Sarbahara Party and Jono Juddho are amongst the front ranking most notorious leftist terror groups in Bangladesh. Most of these terror outfits continue various forms of crime including, murder, rape, abduction, extortion and robbery in the name of 'establishing socialist or Communist society'. According to various statistics, more than 200 innocent people were killed, thousands raped and dozens abducted by these notorious leftist terror outfits. Millions of Taka is being collected through extortion by the members of these groups, especially within the South-Eastern part of Bangladesh. There are allegations that, a number of central leaders preaching Socialism and Communism are keeping hidden or half-exposed connection with these groups.

According to reports, threat of sudden attack by the leftist terror groups or Islamist militants or a Leftist-Islamist alliance terror coalition may take place anytime in Bangladesh. It is much apprehended that such terror attacks may take place especially during Thursday evenings in Dhaka's five star hotels or restaurants or elite clubs. Terrorists may even use some of the service staffers or call girls, who generally gather within such places during Thursday Night Parties.

Another source said terrorists may target Western establishments as well as nationals in Bangladesh. "Foreigners living in Bangladesh should follow extra caution", the source said.

Following threats of sudden militant attack in Bangladesh, additional security measures are already taken within the residence and office of the Prime Minister as well as the Presidential Palace. Counter-terrorism experts have suggested that for the sake of better security, carrying cell phone inside the Presidential Palace, Prime Minister's office and residence as well as Jatiyo Sangshad Bhaban [National Parliament House] should be restricted. Presently, there is no restriction on carrying of cell phone inside those high security areas. Additional security measures should also be taken and members of Rapid Action Battalion [RAB] may be deployed within the boarding bridge areas of Zia International Airport. It may be mentioned here that, boarding bridges are left absolutely unsecured presently.

According to counter-terrorism experts, Bangladesh Government should also take immediate steps in scrutinizing the pros and cons of the Kindergarten and Kindergarten Cadet Madrassas in the country. It was already reported that, several Kindergarten and Kindergarten Cadet Madrassas are continuing to operate in Bangladesh with hidden source of dubious funding from Afro-Arab sources.

Television channels should also refrain from broadcasting provocative and Jihadist programs, especially programs highlighting activities of international terror outfits like Al Qaida, Hezbollah or Hamas. In most of the Madrassas in Bangladesh, Al Qaida, Hezbollah or Hamas and its leaderships are portrayed as 'Greatest Heroes' by the Islamist clergies and religious teachers.

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