The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has set up some special camps at the transport terminals for ensuring safety and security to the homebound passengers ahead of the Eid-ul-Fitr.

"DMP has already set up some special camps at bus, railway and launch terminals to closely monitor the activities of snatchers and pickpockets. This is aimed at ensuring smooth and safe journey for the homebound passengers ahead of holy Eid-ul-Fitr," DMP Commissioner Naim Ahmed told reporters after attending a monthly crime review meeting at the Rajarbagh Police Lines yesterday afternoon.

He said the activities of muggers and robbers increased slightly in August compared to the month of July and the DMP has strengthened its patrols to combat the muggers and robbers.

According to the DMP statistics, some 15 robberies occurred in August against 13 in July, while 36 mugging incidents took place in August against 28 in July.

"Some special teams are working to nab criminals, specially pickpockets, at all the shopping malls and markets. On an average, over 100 muggers were arrested each month in the city," the DMP Commissioner said.

About some sensational crime incidents that occurred recently, he said the DMP had already been able to unearth the mystery of some such incidents, including the killing of garment owner Abdus Salam Babu and the snatching of over Tk 46 lakh from a manager of ACI company.

The DMP Commissioner said the city's law and order situation was under control. The crime rate has decreased as some 30 people were murdered in August while the figure was 33 in July.

About traffic jam, he said the traffic movement is much better this time than the previous Ramzan due to the nonstop duty of the traffic officials despite heavy limitations. "At least, the city dwellers can take their Iftar at home this year instead of on the road."

Asked to comment on the 48-hour deadline given by Hizbut Tahrir Bangladesh, the Police Commissioner said they are seriously observing the matter.

On Thursday, a meeting of Hizbut Tahrir at the city's Engineers Institute demanded immediate release of its 10 leaders who were arrested in Rajshahi on September 18 suspected of militancy.