The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has deployed a record 34 platoons across key industrial areas in Dhaka, Gazipur and Narayanganj, its highest deployment since the labour unrest began earlier in the month.

The authorities stepped up security measures to prevent further escalation and maintain order in the country's industrial belt, the BGB said in a statement on Monday.

The deployment reflects heightened security concerns amid continuing labour unrest, with the government increasing the presence of law enforcement personnel at major industrial hubs to prevent violence and disruption to industrial activities.

The BGB personnel are deployed in several key locations, including Savar, Ashulia and Mirpur in Dhaka district; Shibu Market, Jalkuri, BSCIC Industrial Estate, Chashara, Kanchpur and Shimrail in Narayanganj; and Chandra, Kaliakair, Palli Bidyut, Mouchak, Ambag Kata, Naojor, Bhogra Bypass, Gachha and Salna in Gazipur.

“The BGB headquarters is maintaining round-the-clock surveillance through its monitoring cell to assess the situation and coordinate the activities of personnel deployed on the ground. Live footage from drones, body-worn cameras and improvised devices is being monitored continuously,” the statement reads.

The protesting workers are demanding a monthly minimum wage of 30,000 taka, up from the 12,500 taka set in 2023. The government formed a wage board on November 1, which announced that the new pay structure, once determined, would take effect from December.

On November 3, Dhaka police said they had arrested 33 supporters of the former ruling party, the Awami League, on charges of sabotage. Others alleged that members of the ruling BNP's youth wing had marched against protesting workers.

Three labour leaders were reportedly detained in Ashulia on November 3 on allegations of incitement. Police have also filed cases under the Anti-Terrorism Act against thousands of unnamed people.