Dhaka Police Warn Vehicles Seized for New Year’s Eve Racing

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has issued a strict warning that vehicles involved in illegal street racing on New Year’s Eve, popularly known as “Thirty-First Night”, will be confiscated immediately. The announcement was made by DMP Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali during a press briefing on Thursday, ahead of Christmas celebrations and the forthcoming English New Year.

The briefing followed a coordination meeting at the DMP headquarters, where the Commissioner emphasised the need to ensure public safety while allowing citizens to celebrate the festive season peacefully. “We must maintain a secure environment so that public movement is not disrupted. Christmas should be observed with religious solemnity and in a celebratory spirit, and adequate security measures will be in place,” he said.

According to DMP officials, 73 churches across Dhaka will host Christmas services for Christian worshippers. To prevent the spread of rumours or misinformation, the police have intensified cyber patrolling and strengthened intelligence monitoring throughout the city.

Commissioner Sajjat Ali further urged residents to remain vigilant during New Year’s Eve celebrations, cautioning that any reckless or unlawful activity could lead to immediate action. “In the interest of public safety, anyone engaging in street racing on the Thirty-First Night will have their vehicles seized,” he warned.

Additional directives included the requirement that any event or gathering during New Year’s Eve must obtain prior permission from the authorities. Furthermore, the sale or purchase of firecrackers and explosives will be closely monitored to prevent any incidents.

DMP officials also appealed to the public to refrain from using fireworks, sky lanterns, or other potentially hazardous items, highlighting the safety risks associated with celebratory activities.

Additional police measures will focus on ensuring traffic flow, protecting vulnerable areas, and preventing accidents or untoward incidents during the festive period. The Commissioner assured that all units of the DMP will be on alert, maintaining a visible presence across the city to safeguard citizens and facilitate smooth celebrations.

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