Dhaka police chief vows ‘zero tolerance’ against crime in the capital

Newly appointed Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Mosleh Uddin Ahmed on Wednesday said the force would adopt a “zero tolerance” policy against extortion, mugging, drugs, juvenile gangs, online gambling and cyber fraud in the capital.

He made the remarks while addressing a “Meet the Press” programme at the DMP media centre in Dhaka.

The DMP chief warned that no offender would be spared on the basis of political affiliation or social status, adding that law enforcement agencies would take strict action against all forms of criminal activity.

Referring to the challenges of maintaining law and order in a megacity of nearly 30 million people, he said crimes such as mugging, drug trafficking, extortion, juvenile gang activities, online gambling, cyber fraud and hacking have become major concerns in Dhaka.

To curb such crimes, the DMP launched a special drive on 1 May, while its cyber unit is also being strengthened further to combat cybercrime, he said.

He added that a newly established digital forensic lab at the Detective Branch (DB) office is expected to improve investigation capabilities.

Speaking about traffic congestion in the capital, Mosleh Uddin Ahmed said several initiatives have already been taken to modernise traffic management through technology.

AI-based cameras have been installed at key intersections, while an e-prosecution system using video footage has also been introduced, he added.

The commissioner said citizens can now file General Diaries (GDs) online, while services such as “Hello DMP” have been launched to improve public service delivery.

Highlighting security measures ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, he said special arrangements would be made across the capital during the festive period.

Additional police personnel will be deployed at cattle markets, Eid congregations, shopping malls and residential areas, while security has already been tightened at bus terminals, railway stations and launch terminals, he added.

He further said action would be taken against overcharging passengers and carrying excess passengers during the Eid rush.

Urging citizens to seek police assistance while carrying large sums of money, the DMP commissioner said the DB and local police stations have been placed on maximum alert to prevent crimes by organised groups, including drugging gangs, muggers and counterfeit currency syndicates during Eid.

He also urged people to immediately inform police about any criminal activity and contact the national emergency service 999 when necessary.

Calling on the media to play a constructive role, he said journalists should not only criticise police but also highlight their positive activities to help raise public awareness.