Staff Reporter:
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam has warned that the “fascist forces,” which fled the country following last year’s mass uprising, will face resistance from the people themselves if they attempt to create unrest or commit crimes again.
“The fascist regime was ousted on 5 August last year in the face of a people’s uprising. If this fugitive group tries once more to destabilize the country or engage in criminal activities, the people will resist them,” the IGP told reporters on Saturday.
He made the remarks in response to recent posts on several social media pages where fugitive leaders were seen calling for demonstrations or blockades on 13 November.
The police chief said, “If the absconding fascist group attempts any act of violence or disorder, the people will stand against them. They were ousted by the collective resistance of the masses. The law enforcement agencies are working for the country and for public safety.”
He added that intelligence agencies are closely monitoring social media pages being used by the fugitive faction to spread propaganda.
Emphasising the need for a culture of respect for the law, IGP Baharul said, “90% of people must follow the law and live by the rules. The remaining 10% who don’t—police will deal with them accordingly. But the foundation must be a culture of law-abiding citizens.”
“Freedom doesn’t mean the right to abuse someone on social media or to block roads and disrupt public life,” he said, calling on civil society to play a proactive role in countering such actions alongside the police and other security forces.
The IGP noted that the nation is now looking forward to the upcoming February 2026 national elections, and police preparations are already underway to ensure a peaceful and neutral poll.
When asked what measures the police would take if armed groups attempt to seize polling centers or obstruct voting, Baharul replied, “We are preparing for a fair and festive election that meets the expectations of the nation. Every current activity of the police is centered on that goal. For the first time, specialised training is being conducted on election security, as this is a responsibility tied to the country’s future and destiny.”
Referring to legal guidelines on maintaining public order, he said, “The Criminal Procedure Code outlines in detail how police may act to control disorder. We will go as far as the law allows to prevent anyone from sabotaging the election.”
According to the IGP, approximately 150,000 specially trained police personnel will be deployed nationwide to ensure security during the upcoming general election.
