Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzad Ali, announced that the process of equipping traffic sergeants with small arms has commenced to curb muggings on roads and highways.
Addressing an event on Thursday (6 February), organised by the Dhaka Road Transport Owners' Association at the Azampur BDR Market bus stand in Uttara, marking the inauguration of counter-based and e-ticketing bus operations in the capital, the DMP commissioner made these remarks in response to a query.
“Stringent measures have been enforced following a rise in mugging complaints. Intensive operations have led to the arrest of numerous muggers, resulting in a noticeable decline in such incidents over the past 15 days. Our efforts remain robust and will continue with the same vigour,” he stated.
Highlighting the challenges faced by the police, the DMP commissioner acknowledged that incidents of public muggings, including those involving weapons, have been reported from various areas.
“Our manpower is limited. Often, traffic police officers find themselves unable to respond effectively. Therefore, we have initiated the process of arming them with small firearms, enabling them to confront muggers directly,” he added.
When questioned about measures taken to prevent the recent attack and vandalism at Dhanmondi 32, he responded, “We attempted to control the situation. I personally monitored reports from the site until late at night.”
In response to queries regarding alleged attacks on journalists during the incident, the he claimed, “We have not received any information regarding assaults on journalists.”
