‘Be careful with phones, wallets when outside’

Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner SM Sazzat Ali yesterday urged city dwellers to keep their mobile phones and wallets safe while travelling.

"Sometimes, mobile phones are snatched away while people are on the phone on buses or cars. Chasing down muggers can get quite difficult at times as our police personnel carry heavy arms, wear boots and are in uniforms while muggers are barefoot or in sneakers," he said while speaking at a programme of Crime Reporters' Association of Bangladesh at The Dhaka Club.

Sazzat said, "We will assist you, but please try to keep your bags and mobile phones safe. By doing this, you can help us in our efforts."

Most of those involved in mugging are young, aged between 15 and 22, and they are getting involved in such crimes due to addiction.

The DMP chief said, "We have taken extensive measures to prevent mugging incidents by increasing patrol teams and engaging DB teams. As per this week's data, such incidents have decreased compared to last week. We are hopeful that we will be able to bring it under control."

The DMP boss also said it will require time to change the force's behaviour.

"It is not possible to suddenly change 40,000 members without proper training. Therefore, we have already started organising programmes. You will soon notice the change."

"The city dwellers have deeply realised the consequences of police inaction after August 5. You need the police. We have many shortcomings, but we are working to overcome them and provide you with better services."

The DMP chief admitted that mugging, looting, and robbery incidents have significantly increased after August 5, but they are able to contain the crimes to a great extent in the last couple of months.