In a bold move to curb the rising incidents of road snatching, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjad Ali announced that traffic sergeants will soon be re-authorized to carry small firearms. The initiative aims to empower law enforcement officers to effectively combat crimes on the roads and highways.
Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjad Ali revealed on Thursday that traffic sergeants in Dhaka will be provided with small arms to enhance their ability to prevent and respond to snatching incidents. The decision follows a rise in robberies and crimes on the city’s roads, making it increasingly difficult for officers to manage the situation with the current manpower.
Speaking at the inauguration of the BRT counter and e-ticketing system in the Uttara area, the DMP chief addressed the challenges faced by traffic police in maintaining safety and order. He explained that the current shortage of personnel has hindered the ability of traffic officers to effectively deal with such crimes, often leaving them powerless when snatching incidents occur.
“We are short on manpower, and many times the responsible members of the traffic police are unable to act,” Sheikh Md. Sajjad Ali stated. “To address this, an initiative is underway to equip traffic sergeants with small arms or light weapons.”
The announcement comes amid growing concerns over road crimes, with snatching and robberies increasing in recent months. According to the DMP Commissioner, recent arrests of several robbers have led to a decline in such crimes in the past 15 days, signaling that the increased measures are having a positive impact.
Liberty news’ national correspondent states that with the new provision of firearms, the DMP aims to further bolster the capacity of traffic sergeants in tackling street crimes, enhancing their ability to protect citizens and maintain public order on Dhaka’s busy roads.
LND/BAIZID
