Muggings have been on the rise in Dhaka, with frequent reports of incidents in the capital and other parts of the country. Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzat Ali has acknowledged that scattered incidents, mainly mobile phone snatchings, are occurring.
It is common for muggers to grab pedestrians’ phones and flee. Some operate on moving motorcycles, snatching belongings from rickshaw passengers. Pickpocketing is another prevalent issue, with victims often losing wallets and phones. In more severe cases, criminals resort to violence.
Recently, a college student was stabbed in Malibagh, losing Tk 45,000 and his phone in broad daylight. In Savar's Police Town area, three people were injured while trying to stop two knife-wielding muggers on a bus.
Law Enforcement Response
The police have intensified their efforts to curb these crimes. In Doyaganj, a police sergeant successfully chased down a fleeing mugger and recovered a stolen mobile phone. According to Police Headquarters’ crime statistics for January, Dhaka recorded:
- 8 dacoity cases
- 54 robbery cases
- 60 burglary cases
- 146 theft cases
Public frustration over the deteriorating law-and-order situation has led to protests across the country. Light vehicle drivers in Iliotganj, Daudkandi upazila, demonstrated against highway robberies, while students from Dhaka University, Jahangirnagar University, and Jagannath University staged protests on February 23.
With Ramadan approaching, Dhaka is becoming busier as people step out for shopping and preparations for Eid-ul-Fitr. Unfortunately, this also increases the risk of falling prey to muggers. To stay safe, follow these precautionary measures:
Safety Tips for Dhaka Streets
- Check essential belongings such as your handbag and wallet before leaving home.
- Ensure your mobile phone has enough balance, charge, and internet data.
- Hold your bag's straps tightly when riding a rickshaw.
- Avoid using mobile phones while walking on the street.
- Do not use your phone while sitting near open windows in buses or cars.
- Keep an eye on your wallet and mobile phone when storing them in your pockets.
- If confronted by muggers, avoid resistance, as they may be armed.
- Call the national helpline 999 immediately after an incident. Use a passerby's phone if necessary.
- Report the crime at the nearest police station and file a general diary (GD) or case if needed.
- If financial items such as credit or debit cards are stolen, contact your bank to block them immediately.
Police Measures to Combat Mugging
In response to the surge in muggings, Dhaka Metropolitan Police is equipping traffic sergeants with small arms. Speaking at an event on February 6, DMP Commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzat Ali stated that while mugging incidents peaked a month ago, they have since declined due to increased arrests.
"We have limited manpower, and our traffic officers are particularly vulnerable. They often work alone in difficult situations. To address this, we are arming traffic sergeants so they can handle one or two muggers independently," he assured.
With continued police action and public awareness, residents can take steps to protect themselves and help curb the rise in muggings.
