DHAKA, Aug 13, 2026 (BSS) - A total of 72 people, including 53 activists of the banned Awami League (AL), have been arrested in separate operations by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) in the capital's Bhatara and Uttara West police station areas.

In Bhatara, police arrested 53 activists of the banned Awami League and its affiliated organisations from a flat in Bashundhara Residential Area tonight, according to a DMP press release.

The arrests were made around 9:05pm today from a second-floor flat at Block-M, Road-28 under Bhatara Police Station.

According to police, the activists had gathered there to hold a preparatory meeting for observing August 15 and organising a flash procession. 

Police said they were carrying placards and banners and chanting various slogans.

Meanwhile, Uttara West Police arrested 19 people allegedly involved in various offences during a special drive conducted in different crime-prone areas of the Uttara West police station jurisdiction today.

Police said legal proceedings against the 19 arrested in Uttara West are underway. 

Legal action is also being initiated against those arrested in Bhatara.

The DMP said its specialised units and police stations are continuing regular surveillance and operations across the capital to maintain law and order and ensure public safety.