The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) armed its cops with strict orders to use their firearms to forestall mugging in order to protect people's life and purse.

This is one of 29 guidelines issued for the 33 police stations under DMP domain in a bid to prevent mugging in the capital, as bandits again began prowling in the streets.

The guidelines came amid an upturn in the incidence of mugging, said a DMP official while revealing their plan to prevent the banditry.

Under the guidelines, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police has taken tough measures to curb the rate of this crime.

For an on-duty thana police, the guideline says the police will have to use firearms lawfully, if necessary, during a snatching incident to protect public life and property.

DMP sources said 436 spots were identified as vulnerable for mugging. At least 500 muggers everyday are active at those points to commit this crime as an alternative source of income.

Among the 33 police stations, the highest number of mugging points has been identified in Sutrapur area where 39 such crime zones are marked as black spots.