CCTV Camera Stolen from Polling Station Even Before Voting Began

In a worrying security breach, CCTV cameras were reported stolen from the polling centre at Bairag Government Primary School in Anowara Upazila. Local sources confirmed that the theft took place late on Tuesday night, 10 February, raising serious concerns about the safety of election facilities ahead of the national parliamentary elections.

According to residents, the missing cameras were first noticed the following morning, 11 February, when officials arrived at the school premises to inspect the polling arrangements. Subsequent enquiries revealed that the cameras had been deliberately removed under cover of darkness, suggesting a premeditated attempt to compromise the centre’s surveillance system.

The incident has heightened fears among the local community about potential disorder or sabotage on election day. Many villagers believe the theft could be part of a broader strategy to disrupt the voting process or create chaos. In response, residents are demanding a swift investigation to identify the perpetrators and ensure they face exemplary punishment.

Calls have also been made for immediate measures to restore security at the centre, including the installation of new CCTV cameras and deployment of additional law enforcement personnel to safeguard both voters and election staff.

Anowara Police Station Chief, Mohammad Junayet Chowdhury, stated, “Upon receiving the report, the Upazila Executive Officer was immediately informed, and police personnel were dispatched to the site. We are committed to identifying the culprits and taking all necessary legal action.”

The incident has drawn attention to the security preparedness of polling centres in the lead-up to the election. Authorities are now under pressure to strengthen monitoring systems and prevent similar breaches, ensuring that the voting process remains free, fair, and secure.

The following table summarises key details of the incident:

Election officials have assured the public that all necessary measures will be taken to prevent any disruption on voting day. Meanwhile, residents remain vigilant, hoping that such acts of sabotage do not undermine the democratic process in the district.