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Published : 21 Apr 2025, 09:23 PM
Bangladesh Police has decided to introduce a “hotline” to receive calls for assistance exclusively for the safety of foreign investors.
Through this hotline, investing companies can directly seek police assistance in the case of any untoward situation.
The decision came at a meeting led by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam and Executive Chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun on Monday, according to a media statement sent by the Chief Advisor’s Office.
Top officials of foreign companies that were attacked and vandalised during the recent countrywide protests against Israel’s attacks on Gaza attacks also took part in the meeting.
These top officials were from companies including Nestlé Bangladesh, Coca-Cola Bangladesh Beverages, Unilever Bangladesh, Bata, Reckitt Benckiser Bangladesh, PepsiCo, and Jubilant FoodWorks Bangladesh.
On Apr 7 and 8, vandalism occurred at the premises of these brands in different cities nationwide.
Police said at least 140 people have been arrested and over a dozen cases have been filed since the incident.
BIDA executive chairman said, “The IGP, senior police officers, and our BIDA team sitting together with business leaders is a timely and positive example.
“This is not just a courtesy call, but a strong message—the Bangladesh government stands by investors and is committed to supporting them in this crisis.
“These companies play a direct role in supporting the livelihoods and families of thousands.
“While there is a right to protest, destroying opportunities for employment, stability and growth is unacceptable.”
Representatives of the companies at the meeting raised concerns about damage and security.
IGP Baharul said, “We are here not just to respond, but to build trust and prevent repetition of such incidents in the future.
“Affected companies will be able to contact police directly through the emergency hotline and get swift assistance.”
At the meeting, representatives of BIDA, police, and business associations jointly developed a preventive action plan including new security protocols, rapid response units, and rapid communication systems during crises.
“This dialogue is not just a post-incident response, but an initiative to prevent future risks,” Ashiqur said.
“Most importantly, it reflects the government’s commitment—we will stand by investors, not just during times of development, but also during times of crisis,” he added.
Representatives of multinational companies participating in the meeting praised the police’s quick response and BIDA’s cooperation, expressing hopes of continuing their operations in Bangladesh and investing more in the future.
