Crime rates decline, hotspots under 24hr surveillance: Army HQ
Crime rates, including mob justice, extortion, and murder, have decreased significantly in Dhaka and across Bangladesh, according to Colonel Md Shafiqul Islam of the Military Operations Directorate at the Army Headquarters.
Speaking at a press briefing in Dhaka Cantonment on Monday (February 17), he revealed that crime hotspots have been identified and placed under 24-hour surveillance.
Colonel Shafiqul shared statistics highlighting the army’s impact over the past 50 days. "Extortion cases have dropped from 250 to 120, thefts from 850 to below 600, and murders from 350 to 120," he said. "We’ve identified crime hotspots and placed them under constant surveillance, leading to a noticeable decline in these incidents. This trend will continue to improve."
Addressing the kidnapping of around 20 labourers in Lama, Bandarban, Colonel Shafiqul confirmed that joint operations involving the army, police, BGB, and Ansar forces are underway to rescue the abducted workers. "The kidnappers have demanded money, and we are working tirelessly to ensure their safe return," he said.
The army has also been active in curbing violence by the Kuki-Chin group in the hilly regions. "Our patrolling has prevented their activities, and we recently destroyed two of their hidden camps," Shafiqul said. Additionally, 11 displaced BOM families were safely returned to their villages with army assistance.
Responding to questions about army personnel involved in robberies in Dhaka’s Mohammadpur and Banani areas, Colonel Shafiqul acknowledged the incidents as "undesirable."
He said that a high-level investigation committee has been formed to ensure accountability. "Retired officers will be tried under national laws. The army does not tolerate injustice and remains committed to honesty and public trust," he emphasised.
When asked about gaining public trust, Colonel Shafiqul reiterated the army’s commitment to neutrality. "The army stands by the people and works to maintain their trust. We face no challenges in our operations and continue to coordinate with other law enforcement agencies to ensure law and order," he said.
Regarding rumours on social media, Shafiqul noted that while everyone has the right to express opinions, the responsibility of evaluating their objectivity lies with journalists. "The army does not suppress opinions but encourages responsible discourse," he added.
From December 28 to February 16, the army has seized 172 illegal weapons and 527 rounds of ammunition, controlled 88 unstable situations in industrial areas, including Gazipur, Ashulia, and Savar, resolved 30 road blockades, ensuring the operation of 2,097 garment factories, except for a few, he said adding that they also managed 42 disorderly situations, including 14 in educational institutions, 3 in government offices, 9 political conflicts, and 16 other incidents.
