Recent allegations of journalists and students being beaten during anti-drug drives in Suhrawardy Udyan and Dhanmondi have sparked debate over the limits of police authority and the legal safeguards governing searches and use of force. However, Section 165 allows a police officer to conduct a search without a warrant if waiting for one could result in the destruction of evidence. For body searches, Section 51 permits police to search a person who has been arrested or detained. Section 52 further specifies that a woman may only be searched by another woman officer, and her dignity must be preserved. If items are seized, such as a mobile phone or wallet, the person searched is entitled to a seizure list or receipt.

Source: Dhaka Tribune February 24, 2026 16:15 UTC