Security measures have been strengthened at eight airports across the country, including Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), following alerts over possible militant attacks on key installations.

Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmood Siddiq disclosed the development today at a media briefing at the CAAB headquarters.

Regarding alerts issued at airports, he said CAAB had received instructions from Police Headquarters to enhance security.

Mentioning security measures were taken in line with the directives, he said, “We received a letter from Police Headquarters asking us to strengthen security. Accordingly, we issued a security alert.”

Concerned sources said surveillance had been intensified at airports in view of recent security risks, also additional security personnel were deployed at key entry points, terminal areas and sensitive installations, particularly at HSIA.

Sources said CAAB issued a high alert immediately after receiving the letter from Police Headquarters.

All units of law enforcement agencies working at airports were instructed to take special measures. Security was also reinforced around important airport facilities while intelligence surveillance was increased, the sources added.

Additional uniformed and plainclothes members were deployed while security screening was intensified at both arrival and departure areas.