Addressing rising threat of juvenile gangs in Cox’s Bazar

Shad Uddin Al Jabid :

The proliferation of juvenile gangs, often referred to as Kishor gangs, has become a significant concern in Cox’s Bazar, particularly in Chakaria.

These groups of young adults and adolescents pose considerable threats to community safety and harmony, as their involvement in unlawful and antisocial activities—ranging from minor vandalism to severe offenses like drug trafficking and robbery—has far-reaching consequences.

Immediate and coordinated interventions are necessary to address this alarming phenomenon.

To formulate efficacious approaches to tackle the issue at hand, it is critical to comprehend the underlying factors that contribute to the formation of these juvenile gangs.

Youth engagement in gang membership is a strategy employed to ensure economic survival, influenced by socioeconomic factors such as destitution and limited opportunities.

Additionally, the pursuit of social status and validation by peers and peer groups contribute significantly to peer pressure and desire among young people. Moreover, cultural influences, familial problems, and exposure to violence all contribute to the appeal of gang culture.

A holistic approach is required to combat the menace posed by juvenile gangs. Additionally, it is imperative to consider the enhancement of family support networks as a means to effectively tackle fundamental concerns including parental engagement, domestic harmony, and communication. Fostering positive adolescent development can be facilitated through the provision of parenting classes and support services to families experiencing financial hardship.

Youths who have been engaged in illicit or gang-related activities must participate in rehabilitation programs. To aid in their reintegration into society and enable them to lead fruitful lives, these programs ought to provide vocational and academic instruction.

Legal frameworks must be utilized effectively to deter and sanction gang-related offenses, in addition to preventative measures. Legislative instruments that can be utilized to deter and handle offenses committed by the Kishor gang include the Penal Code of 1860 and the Children Act of 2013. The Penal Code specifies the legal repercussions associated with offenses such as drug trafficking, robbery, eve-teasing, defamation, and extortion, which warrant particular consideration.

Valuable insights into the nature and scope of Kishor gang activities can be gleaned from data collected from local authorities, police officers, and journalists. Frequently endowed with political ties, these gangs commit offenses while evading responsibility by utilizing their capital. Evident concerns such as extortion and eve-teasing are widespread, wherein individuals and organizations are singled out for monetary reasons.
Positive media campaigns, law enforcement collaboration, preventative measures, and rehabilitation programs are all necessary. We can strive towards the development of safer and more resilient communities by addressing the underlying factors that contribute to youth gang membership and by offering options and assistance.

(The author is a law student of University of Asia Pacific)