The recent spate of violent incidents in Khulna city is a stark reminder of the challenges facing law enforcement and the urgent need for effective governance.
Our newspaper on Sunday reported that despite the installation of closed-circuit cameras intended to deter crime, the city has witnessed a troubling rise in criminal activities, including shootings, stabbings, and targeted attacks on political figures.
The murder of 26-year-old Arnab Kumar Sarker, a student shot dead in a public space, epitomises the brazen nature of these crimes and the growing fear among residents.
The Khulna BNP’s call to remove police officers in charge of local stations underscores a deepening frustration with the authorities’ inability to maintain law and order.
With at least 12 murders reported in recent months, including several high-profile attacks on BNP leaders, the public’s confidence in the police is waning.
The lack of timely investigations, as evidenced by the absence of a case filed in Arnab’s murder, raises serious questions about the effectiveness of the local law enforcement agencies.
Commissioner Zulfiqar Ali Haider’s assertion that the rise in violence is linked to broader national unrest is a concerning admission.
While it is true that societal instability can exacerbate crime, it is the police’s responsibility to adapt and respond to these challenges.
The measures taken, such as compiling lists of known criminals and offering rewards for their capture, are commendable but insufficient.
The ongoing operations to apprehend suspects must be accompanied by a comprehensive strategy that addresses the root causes of violence and restores public trust.
Moreover, the alarming trend of released prisoners resuming criminal activities highlights systemic failures within the justice system.
The fact that some individuals can operate with impunity, even from abroad, suggests a need for a more robust approach to monitoring and managing released offenders.
As Khulna grapples with this crisis, local authorities must take decisive action. The community deserves a safe environment where they can live without fear of violence.
This requires not only a commitment to effective policing but also a broader societal effort to address the underlying issues contributing to this surge in crime. The time for complacency has passed; it is time for action now.
