The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has announced a cash reward scheme for its personnel to arrest participants in rallies organized by the banned political party Awami League and its affiliated organisations. According to an internal wireless message circulated on Wednesday afternoon, each arrest will earn the arresting officer Tk5,000.
An audio recording of the announcement, obtained by multiple outlets, states: “If someone arrests one person from a procession organised by a banned group, they will receive Tk5,000. For two arrests, Tk10,000. The more people one arrests, the more the reward will be, provided by the Police Commissioner.”
When contacted, DMP Deputy Commissioner (Media) Mohammad Talebur Rahman said incentives for “laudable work” have long existed within the police force. He confirmed that law enforcement agencies have been instructed to remain vigilant and take preventive measures against banned groups. However, he did not directly confirm whether the Tk5,000-per-person reward was being implemented in this specific context.
Awami League’s Ban and Resurgence
On 10 May 2025, the interim government formally banned all political activities of the Bangladesh Awami League until the International Crimes Tribunal concludes its proceedings against the party and its leaders. The decision followed months of sustained pressure from various political parties, student groups, and civil society organisations demanding accountability.
After the ban, the Awami League largely went silent in public spaces. However, in recent weeks, reports have documented a resurgence of activity. Flash processions by Awami League activists and its student wing Chhatra League have been spotted across parts of Dhaka. These rallies, often brief and sudden, are being filmed and circulated on social media platforms as a means for the party to assert its continued presence.
Law enforcement agencies claim to have already arrested several leaders and activists from such rallies. Authorities insist they will not allow any banned group to reorganise publicly and that measures, including incentives for arrests, are part of maintaining order under the ban.
