Is Crime Escalating Across Bangladesh in 2025?
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Synopsis
In 2025, Bangladesh grapples with a significant rise in crime, including theft and kidnapping, according to police data. This alarming trend raises urgent questions about public safety and government efficacy, as citizens express concerns over escalating violence and law enforcement challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Crime rates in Bangladesh surged significantly in 2025.
- Robbery cases increased by 37% compared to the previous year.
- Kidnapping incidents saw a staggering 71% rise.
- Public confidence in the government’s ability to maintain law and order is declining.
- Mob terrorism is becoming a critical concern for national safety.
Dhaka, Jan 20 (NationPress) Bangladesh has experienced a notable surge in crime rates in 2025, with police statistics revealing a dramatic increase in incidents of theft, robbery, mugging, banditry, and kidnapping throughout the nation, according to local media reports on Tuesday.
Referring to data from the Bangladesh Police website, the prominent Bengali daily Prothom Alo indicated that 1,935 robbery cases were documented across the country in 2025, reflecting a 37 percent increase from the previous year.
The report noted 702 robbery incidents last year, a rise of 43 percent from 2024, while theft cases surged by 12 percent, totaling 9,672 incidents. Furthermore, kidnapping incidents escalated by 71 percent, with 1,101 cases reported.
Overall, 13,410 cases under these four categories of crime were logged in 2025, marking a 16.48 percent increase in comparison to 2024, with robbery and snatching rising by 39 percent.
The police recorded 3,786 murder cases nationwide last year, which is 354 more than in 2024. Authorities noted that some cases are linked to prior events, including incidents stemming from the July 2024 protests.
Additionally, mob terrorism has reportedly surfaced as a new law and order dilemma in Bangladesh. The Dhaka-based Ain O Salish Kendra (ASK) registered 197 deaths related to mob violence in 2025, compared to 128 deaths in 2024.
In an interview with Prothom Alo regarding the current law and order condition in Bangladesh, Assistant Professor Rezaul Karim Sohag from the Department of Criminology at Dhaka University stated, "Various types of criminals are active in society. Habitual offenders tend to commit more crimes as opportunities arise. They select targets based on available chances."
“The law and order situation is currently in a fragile state. Law enforcement agencies are not functioning effectively, providing more opportunities for criminals. Consequently, crime rates are rising alarmingly,” he added.
A survey conducted by Keymakers Consulting Limited in December, on behalf of Prothom Alo, revealed that 60 percent of respondents believe the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has failed to uphold law and order in Bangladesh.
Since the Yunus-led interim administration took office in August 2024, Bangladesh has witnessed intensified protests and a deteriorating law and order situation.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the serious implications that rising crime rates have on national stability. The increase in theft and violent crime poses significant challenges that require immediate attention from law enforcement and policymakers. The public's perception of safety is paramount, and addressing these concerns should be a priority for the government.
NationPress
20/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of crimes have increased in Bangladesh?
In 2025, Bangladesh has seen significant increases in theft, robbery, mugging, banditry, and kidnapping.
What does the police data indicate about crime trends?
Police data shows a sharp rise, with robbery cases increasing by 37% and kidnappings by 71% compared to 2024.
What are the potential causes of rising crime rates?
Experts suggest that the lack of effective law enforcement and growing opportunities for habitual criminals contribute to the increase in crime.
How is the public responding to this rise in crime?
A recent survey indicates that 60% of people believe the interim government has failed to maintain law and order.
What is mob terrorism, and how is it affecting Bangladesh?
Mob terrorism has emerged as a significant issue, with 197 recorded deaths linked to such violence in 2025, highlighting a new law and order crisis.
