Dhaka District Superintendent of Police (SP) Shamima Pervin on Wednesday alleged that the ongoing protests were no longer a genuine workers’ movement, claiming that a vested group had infiltrated the demonstrations by posing as workers to destabilise the country’s garment industry and the state.
She made the remarks at an emergency special law and order meeting at the conference room of Savar Upazila Parishad.
The SP alleged that criminals were staying in the Savar-Ashulia area under the protection of political leaders, journalists, labour leaders and civil society representatives.
“I want to address not only political leaders but also the journalists, labour leaders and civil society representatives present here. These criminals are staying in the Savar-Ashulia area because they are receiving shelter and patronage from you. We have identified those providing shelter and patronage to these criminals in Dhaka district,” she said.
Shamima said those who had committed various crimes and caused suffering to people over the past 17 years were still in the area and continued to receive political protection and patronage.
“If any of you present here shelter or patronise criminals for personal gain, or protect those who discredit the government or undermine law and order in the country, you will not be spared either. We will take legal action against you and strictly enforce the law,” she warned.
She also said rumours were being spread about the situation in Dhaka district amid the protests.
“No one died today. Yet, various rumours are being spread. It is being claimed that 40 police personnel were injured and that several police vehicles were set on fire. In reality, no one was injured and only one vehicle was set on fire. You [journalists] should make the public aware of these rumours,” she said.
Dhaka Deputy Commissioner Farida Khanom chaired the meeting.
Source: https://www.thedailystar.net/news/news/dhaka-sp-alleges-political-leaders-others-sheltering-criminals-amid-garment-workers-protests-4315746
