Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sajjad Ali has acknowledged the immediate issues resulting from the diminished morale of Dhaka's police force post-August 5 and emphasised ongoing efforts to overcome these setbacks.
"Following the events of 5 August, we observed an increase in theft, muggings, and robberies, showcasing what a society without police could look like," he stated. "However, in the past five months, we have successfully brought many of these crimes under control," he said during his speech as the chief guest at the Annual General Meeting of the Bangladesh Crime Reporters Association on Sunday (8 January).
The DMP commissioner highlighted the necessity for change in the behaviour of police members, a transformation that requires time and extensive training.
"It is not feasible to alter the conduct of 40,000 police officers abruptly. We are initiating training programmes to guide our officers on the appropriate use of force, the evidence of which will soon be apparent. Ensuring the safety of Dhaka’s residents is our sacred duty, and we are committed to fulfilling it."
Dhaka, home to about 25 million residents, faces numerous challenges, including poverty, a large lower-income population, and unemployment, which often burden the police force.
Recently, various groups and communities have resorted to road blockades to press their demands, exacerbating the already fragile traffic system of the city.
The Commissioner urged them to opt for open fields or auditoriums for such activities and to engage with the relevant authorities for solutions, cautioning against further straining the city’s traffic.
He also addressed the rise in snatching incidents, primarily involving young, drug-addicted individuals aged 20 to 22, who resort to crime to fund their addiction.
"Most snatching occurs when people are talking on their phones or carrying bags in buses and private cars. To avoid such incidents, keep your phones and bags secure. By staying vigilant, you can assist us in combating this menace."
In response to these crimes, the Commissioner has increased patrols both day and night and assigned additional responsibilities to the Detective Branch (DB) police to counteract snatching effectively.
