Dhaka, Aug. 14 -- Police have arrested 53 leaders and activists of the Awami League and its affiliated organisations in the capital's Vatara area.

They were arrested from a flat in Bashundhara Residential Area around 9:05pm on Thursday, said Additional Deputy Commissioner (Media) Niaz Mehedi of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP).

He said the leaders and activists of the Awami League, which faces a ban on its activities, gathered at the flat to hold a preparatory meeting and organise a flash procession on the occasion of August 15.

Niaz Mehedi said police raided the flat and arrested 53 people from the spot while they were allegedly chanting anti-state slogans and carrying placards and banners.

Legal proceedings against those arrested...