Police personnel stationed in Dhaka have been barred from using mobile phones while on duty, as part of tightened security measures amid the ban on Awami League programmes.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Mohammad Sajjat Ali issued the directive on Monday, said Joint Commissioner (Crime) Md Faruq Hossain.

The restriction applies to all police members on duty, except for their respective in-charges,” Faruq Hossain said.

The instruction emphasises maintaining law and order, remaining vigilant to prevent any activities by the banned Awami League, and ensuring a peaceful environment ahead of the forthcoming national election.

Faruq Hossain added, “Each team’s in-charge — regardless of rank — will keep their mobile phone active to maintain necessary communication.”

The directive warns that any officer failing to comply will face disciplinary action under existing regulations for breach of conduct.

Commenting on the order, a police official that some field-level officers are often seen distracted by mobile phone use during duty, which hampers their ability to prevent crimes or ensure public safety.

For this reason, the restriction applies strictly during duty hours,” the officer said.