A total of 626 people, including 24 political persons and police members, took shelter in cantonments after the fall of Sheikh Hasina-led government on August 5.

When the situation became normal, 615 left the cantonments while four were handed over to law enforcement agencies following a legal procedure.

The Inter-Services Public Relations Directorate (ISPR) disclosed the information in a press release on Sunday (August 18).

Of the 626 people, 24 are political personalities, five are judges, 19 are civil administration officials, 28 are police officers, 487 are policemen of different positions, 12 are people of different professions, including the officials of public universities; and 51 families took shelter in different cantonments.

The military provided refuge to these individuals to prevent extrajudicial actions, protect lives, and uphold the rule of law amid a widespread deterioration in law and order across the country following the political shift, ISPR said in the statement.

"With the improvement of the situation, 615 individuals have voluntarily left the military bases. So far, four individuals have been handed over to law enforcement agencies following due legal process, based on allegations or cases filed against them," the ISPR statement said.

Currently, seven individuals, including three persons and their four family members, remain in military custody. The ISPR has provided all relevant information to the concerned ministry.

The ISPR urged the public to remain patient, avoid rumours, and cooperate with authorities, reiterating the Bangladesh Army's dedication to standing by the people as per laws.

BDST: 1300 HRS, AUG 18, 2024
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