Dhaka: Police and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) forces purged over 200 street children, vagrants and drug addicts out of the city to clear the decks for the grand rally of Bangladesh National Party (BNP).

Police claimed they removed the waifs and strays to avert extra troubles, as ensuring security of the rally of former premier Khaleda Zia was a top concern for them.

On information, police started shifting these floating people Tuesday night and the cleansing drives lasted till Wednesday morning.

While installing close-circuit cameras in various spots of Paltan, the RAB and police officials found the floating people in different places around Paltan Maidan.

They later herded them up to Bhawal Garh of Gazipur by two big lorries.

Police inspector Majibur Rahman informed banglanews24.com.bd, “Earlier a number of mishaps have been created by these types of floating people, like bombings or throwing grenades, etc. They have been moved from the spot to ensure the security.”

Commanding officer of RAB-3 Major Jakir Hossain said, “The floating people started living in various places permanently cantering the stadium and Paltan. That is why they have been evicted from the city for a short recreation.”

BdST: 4:57 PM. 2010-05-19
SMM/LY/MUA