Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzat Ali on Thursday said law enforcers must ensure public safety while allowing normal daily activities to continue uninterrupted.

He made the remarks at a meeting at the DMP Headquarters ahead of Christmas, the largest religious festival of the Christian community, and the English New Year’s Eve.The DMP commissioner said security measures should be taken in a way that does not hamper the normal movement of people.

He said adequate arrangements would be in place to ensure that Christmas is observed in a solemn and festive atmosphere. He said Christmas-related religious programmes will be held at 73 churches across the capital.

To prevent the spread of rumours and misinformation, cyber patrolling has been intensified alongside enhanced intelligence surveillance.

Referring to upcoming events, the commissioner urged all concerned to remain alert to prevent any untoward incidents on the 31st night.

He also requested city residents to refrain from motor racing, warning that vehicles involved in racing on 31st night would be seized.Additional Police Commissioner (Administration) Md Sarwar said prior permission must be obtained to organise any event on the occasion of 31st night.

Additional Police Commissioner (DB) Md Shafiqul Islam said fireworks and sky lanterns would not be allowed.Leaders of the Christian community, Additional Police Commissioner (CTTC) Md Masud Karim, Additional Police Commissioner (traffic) Md Anisur Rahman, representatives of various agencies, joint commissioners of DMP, deputy commissioners and officers in charge of concerned police stations were present at the meeting.