Prepared with security for Durga Puja, Ashura

Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) has taken sufficient security measures for a peaceful celebration of Durga Puja and Ashura, said its Director General Benazir Ahmed yesterday.

Rab personnel both in uniform and plainclothes as well as dog squads will remain vigilant while intelligence gathering network will also be active, he told a press briefing after visiting the Banani puja mandap in the capital.

Durga Puja, the biggest religious festival of the Hindus, began yesterday through the celebration of Mahashashthi puja.

Asked about their plan for the security of foreigners, who would visit the mandaps, especially after the recent killings of two foreigners, Benazir said the elite force would work to ensure security and safety for both locals and foreigners as each and every life is important.

Benazir mentioned that they had not received any threat yet but still they had been communicating with all intelligence agencies and friendly countries to combat probable threats.

Combined efforts of law enforcers and public are required to tackle untoward incidents like vandalism of idols and sexual harassment during the puja celebration, he added.