New DMP commissioner announces 'zero tolerance' against extortion, cyber fraud

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police will follow a "zero tolerance" policy against extortion, mugging, drugs, juvenile gangs, online gambling and cyber fraud in the capital, newly appointed DMP Commissioner Mosleh Uddin Ahmed said today (20 May).

During a "Meet the Press" programme held at the Dhaka Metropolitan Police media centre in the capital, he also said no offender would be spared on the basis of political or social identity. "There is no political identity of criminals. Whoever commits a crime, action will be taken," he said.

Referring to the challenges of policing a city of nearly 30 million people, he said mugging, drugs, extortion, juvenile gangs, online gambling, cyber fraud and hacking have become major concerns in Dhaka.

To address these issues, he said a special drive has been ongoing since 1 May. He added that the cyber unit is being further strengthened to prevent cybercrime, while a recently received digital forensic lab at the Detective Branch office is expected to support investigations.

On traffic management, he said several initiatives have been taken to modernise the system using technology. AI-based cameras have been installed at key intersections, and an e-prosecution system based on video footage has been introduced.

He also said citizens can now file General Diaries online, while services such as "Hello DMP" have been launched to improve public access to police services.

Ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha, the commissioner said special security measures will be in place across the capital. Additional police personnel will be deployed at cattle markets, Eid congregations, shopping malls and residential areas.

Security has already been tightened at bus terminals, railway stations and launch terminals, he added. Action will also be taken against overcharging passengers and carrying excess passengers during the Eid travel period.

He urged citizens carrying large sums of money to seek police assistance when necessary. He also said the Detective Branch and local police stations have been placed on maximum alert to prevent crimes by organised gangs, including drugging gangs, muggers and counterfeit currency syndicates during the Eid period.

The commissioner further said that efforts are ongoing against organised crime, including juvenile gangs and drug networks, and that offenders will be brought under the law in phases.

He said that from 1 May, 2,024 people have already been arrested in special drives, including 206 listed extortionists, 847 drug traders and 670 robbers and criminals.

On infrastructure, he noted that 23 of Dhaka's 50 police stations operate from their own buildings, while seven are under renovation and others run from temporary facilities. The government has approved new vehicles for police stations, and procurement will begin soon alongside repairs of existing vehicles.

He also highlighted the expansion of AI-based traffic systems and improved coordination among agencies since the current administration took office.

On extremism, he said the term "militancy" is being replaced with "extremism" in police usage, and operations continue with verification of all intelligence before action is taken.

He added that rapid urbanisation, population pressure, cybercrime, fraud, slum-based crime and drug issues remain key challenges, and stressed that public cooperation is essential to build a safer city.

He also urged citizens to report even minor crimes, saying small offences often lead to larger criminal activity. He called on the media to play a constructive role by highlighting both challenges and positive policing efforts to raise public awareness.

Ahead of Eid, he urged people to contact the national emergency service 999 whenever needed and to remain alert against criminal activity.