Reports from various media outlets indicate that the capital’s Mohammadpur area has turned into a crime zone as incidents of mugging, robbery, gunfights, thefts and murders are increasing in the area. Even the incidents of robbery are occurring in broad daylight.
Besides, there are frequent incidents of fatal robberies as well. This creates fear among the residents.
The question arises why have the crimes in the capital city, particularly in Mohammadpur area, suddenly increased? However, the law and order in the country is still chaotic. Although the army is deployed, their effectiveness has been limited.
In this perspective, the members of the Bangladesh Army, the Rapid Action Battalion and the police conducted joint drives between 6:00pm and 11:00pm on Saturday, arresting 45 people for their suspected involvement in murder cases, muggings, robberies, and being members of teenage gangs.
According to media reports, organised gangs in Mohammadpur on Friday night attacked Bosila’s Garden City. The machete-wielding robbers wearing masks looted the super shop.
The next day on Saturday evening, a shooting incident at the Geneva Camp left three people injured, including a minor who later died in hospital.
Last week, criminals also looted a company vehicle, carrying Tk 12 lakh at gunpoint at the Mohammadia Housing Ltd area.
We welcome the step by the army which will help restore security to some extent.
Since being granted magistracy powers in mid-September, the army has conducted a number of operations to seize illegal weapons, drugs, and ammunition looted after the August 5 student-mass movement.
Unfortunately, the alleged involvement of a number of sacked and former law enforcers in robberies has complicated the situation.
Given this reality, the government must take steps to fully reactivate the local police force.
Their involvement in regular patrols, backed by necessary resources, is essential to restore public confidence.
It is also essential to improve the overall economic and political environment of the country.
We strongly urge the interim government to take decisive action to stop the criminal activities and restore normalcy in society. Otherwise, we will face a significant threat to our collective safety.
