Youth Arrested at Shahbagh Metro Station with Fake Pistol

Dhaka, 12 February 2026 – Authorities at Shahbagh Metro Station apprehended a young man in possession of a fake pistol earlier today, raising concerns about security during the ongoing national elections. The suspect’s identity has not yet been disclosed.

The arrest occurred on Thursday morning at approximately 10:30 a.m., according to Additional Police Superintendent of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Police, Md. Abu Ashraf Siddiqui. Officers noted that the suspect was wearing a vest bearing the symbol of the “Daṛipalla” movement and a traditional Panjabi under which an NCP (National Citizens’ Party) logo was visible.

During the search, the police recovered a counterfeit firearm, plastic ammunition, and a police baton from the young man. He is currently in the process of being handed over to Shahbagh Police Station for further investigation.

In response to the incident, Md. Siddiqui confirmed that MRT authorities have intensified security measures to ensure the safety of commuters and to prevent any untoward incidents at metro stations across the city.

The arrest coincided with the commencement of the historic 13th National Parliamentary Election and national referendum, which began at 7:30 a.m. today. Voting will continue nationwide until 4:30 p.m., with citizens casting ballots across 299 parliamentary constituencies.

A total of 42,779 polling centres have been set up throughout the country, encompassing 247,482 polling booths, to accommodate millions of eligible voters. This election sees participation from 50 registered political parties, reflecting the nation’s vibrant democratic process.

The authorities emphasised that incidents like today’s arrest are isolated and urged citizens to remain vigilant while exercising their democratic rights. Law enforcement agencies have assured that security will be maintained across all polling stations to ensure a peaceful and orderly voting process.

Polling Overview – 13th National Parliamentary Election 2026

Authorities continue to monitor all key locations, including transport hubs like metro stations, to prevent any security threats that could disrupt the electoral process.