Law enforcement agencies detained 54 people in a raid on a rented flat in Dhaka’s Bashundhara Residential Area, alleging that a birthday gathering was being used to plan sabotage ahead of August 15. The operation was conducted late Thursday at a second-floor flat in a building on Road 28 in M Block, according to the report. Authorities alleged that leaders and activists of the banned Awami League and affiliated organisations had gathered there to discuss fires and disruptive activities at different points in the capital.

Police said Bhatar police surrounded the flat around 9 p.m. and seized provocative banners, placards, face masks and alleged sabotage equipment. They initially arrested 53 people, including Mehjabin Akhtar Mala and her husband Motaleb Hossain, then detained another alleged member based on information from those arrested. Investigating officer SI Hafizur Rahman said questioning indicated plans to create major disorder in Dhaka before August 15.

A court sent 52 detainees to jail, while two minors were sent to the Tongi Child Development Centre in Gazipur. Police are examining communications, funding sources, who ordered the meeting and its planned activities. Security and surveillance have also been increased at Dhaka entry points, key facilities and crowded locations.