Deterioration of public safety

Murders and robbery have increased all over the country, including the capital city. In Dhaka, Tk.3.0 million was snatched from a person after the criminals opened fire. Rapes continue to take place in buses, trucks, and other vehicles. Even the homes of ordinary people are not spared. The dishonesty and corruption of certain members of the law enforcement agencies has made the matter worse.
Everything has broken down. Even administrative officials are not safe from killings and robberies. On Sunday morning, the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Chuadanga Sadar Upazila was held hostage at gunpoint in his home while robbery was carried out. It is evident that the criminals are not fearful of being caught. The police, in most cases, cannot put a finger on them.
Obviously, crimes cannot be uprooted entirely in any country of the world. But, it is a sign that the public security system is breaking down when crime is on an upward spiral and the police remain nonchalant. Surely, the government should be alert. Instead, the Minister of Home Affairs, the heads of the law enforcement agencies and the governmental spokespersons simply spew out rhetoric that "all is well".
While the police are more strengthened and the RAB has been given greater authority, their success rate in combating crime is lower than the usual expectation. There are high levels of deficiency in their performance, which should be considered frightful concern for the ordinary citizens and a matter of urgency for the government. There is no room for arrogance when it comes to ensuring public safety or the state of law and order. The government must stand up and take note.

Faze Rabbi
Dhanmondi, Dhaka
nabil.dewan@gmail.com