Is Violence and Organised Crime Escalating in Bangladesh Ahead of the 2026 Elections?
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Synopsis
As Bangladesh gears up for its upcoming general elections, a disturbing rise in violent and organised crime has been reported. With police data revealing alarming statistics, the nation grapples with escalating criminal activities that threaten public safety and security. What does this mean for the electoral process and the citizens of Bangladesh?
Key Takeaways
- Violent and organised crimes are increasing in Bangladesh.
- Police report a rise in murders, kidnappings, and robberies.
- Efforts are being made to train police personnel for upcoming elections.
- Crime against women and children remains a serious concern.
- Political tensions are rising ahead of the 2026 elections.
Dhaka, Nov 24 (NationPress) With the general elections in Bangladesh nearing, recent crime reports indicate a notable increase in criminal activities nationwide, as per local media sources on Monday.
According to police reports, the Bangladeshi news agency UNB highlighted that both violent and organised crimes are on the rise, becoming more complex in nature. Criminal groups are allegedly impersonating law enforcement to execute robberies and kidnappings.
Data from police headquarters reveals that murders escalated to 319 in October, a rise from 297 in September but slightly below 321 in August.
Instances of dacoity grew to 56 from 50 in October, while robbery cases increased to 180 from 169. Additionally, burglary incidents climbed to 301, compared to 295 in September and 311 in August.
Moreover, kidnappings spiked to 110 in October, up from 96 in September and 90 in August. Theft incidents also surged to 931, against 888 in September and 956 in August. This data illustrates that criminal activity is affecting both urban and rural regions throughout Bangladesh.
Reports indicate that crimes targeting women and children remain disturbingly high in this South Asian nation, with 1,985 incidents recorded in October, nearly matching the 1,904 reported in both September and August.
In the meantime, police officials have stressed that thorough preparations are in progress for the upcoming elections.
“A total of 150,000 police personnel are undergoing training in phases. Training for approximately 50,000 members has already been completed, with the remainder set to finish on schedule,” a Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) official informed UNB.
Recently, the Awami League accused the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus of overseeing 4,177 murder cases over the past 14 months, with bodies discovered in drains, rivers, and streets across the nation.
“Fifteen months have elapsed under the 'usurper' Yunus. In this period, 456 murders have been recorded in Dhaka alone, as per the DMP. From last September to this October, an average of 33 murder cases were documented monthly. Across the country, 4,177 murder cases were filed, and this is merely the recorded number, as many more killings remain unreported,” the Awami League stated on X.
“Human rights organizations report that 216 people were beaten to death nationwide during this timeframe. Police attribute the rise in crime partly to 25% of the looted weapons from August 5, including lethal ones, still being unaccounted for. After assuming power, Yunus released major criminals, and police are struggling to maintain control,” it added.
Point of View
It's essential to observe that while crime rates are rising, significant efforts are being made to prepare for the elections. While the data is concerning, it is crucial to maintain a balanced view on the situation, recognizing the complexities involved in ensuring public safety during this politically charged period.
NationPress
24/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the rise in crime in Bangladesh?
The rise in crime is attributed to increasing sophistication of organised crime groups, with reports indicating that these groups are impersonating law enforcement to commit crimes.
How do the current crime statistics compare to previous months?
Recent statistics show an increase in murders, robberies, and kidnappings compared to previous months, with October recording 319 murders and significant rises in other crime categories.
What steps are being taken to ensure safety during the elections?
Police officials have stated that extensive training programs are in place for police personnel, with a total of 150,000 officers undergoing training to ensure public safety during the elections.
