With the start of the modernization process of Shaheed Chandu Stadium in Bogra, the security of the stadium has been strengthened. The Ministry of Home Affairs has already deployed a platoon of armed Ansar members in response to the call of the BCB. As a result, the concerned believe that it will be possible to suppress the robbery and drug syndicates surrounding the stadium in addition to the security of the stadium.

It is reported that in 2003, a modern cricket stadium was built at Shaheed Chandu District Stadium Benge with the dedicated efforts of Arafat Rahman Koko, the youngest son of the then Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. In 2004, Bogra was praised for hosting the Under-19 Cricket World Cup in this stadium. The fame of Shaheed Chandu Stadium spread worldwide overnight when world-famous cricketers praised the quality of the outfield and wicket. Floodlights were installed as soon as possible. This stadium was given the status of an international venue in 2006.

But after the One Day International match against Zimbabwe in December 2006, the BCB suddenly forgot about this stadium! No international match was organized for almost a decade and a half. As a result, the ICC canceled the international recognition of the stadium as per the rules. The neglected stadium became unsafe. Floodlight wires and lamps started being stolen in the dark of night. Along with this, the stadium area became a hideout for robbers and drug addicts.

Although a police outpost was set up for security, they completely failed to provide security to the stadium. After the current government came to power, when the initiative was taken to renovate the Shaheed Chandu Stadium, the security issue was taken into consideration first. Following an application by the BCB to the Ministry of Home Affairs, a 16-member armed Ansar force was deployed round the clock from the 5th of this month.

Acting Platoon Commander Abdul Jalil said that they have taken over the security of Shaheed Chandu Stadium from July 5. They have currently camped in the old media box of the stadium. They have a platoon commander, two additional platoon commanders and 14 soldiers in the camp. Ansar members are on duty at the main gate of the stadium around the clock. Additional patrols have been arranged at night. Access to the general public has been restricted. No one is being allowed to cross the main gate of the stadium without an identity card. He is hopeful that this will help curb the thefts, robberies and drug addicts that have occurred in the past.

Shaheed Chandu Stadium Venue Manager Jamilur Rahman Jamil said that it has not been possible to prevent thefts even after setting up police outposts for the security of the stadium. We believe that the deployment of Ansar members will ensure the security of the stadium’s assets.