Inspector General of Police (IGP) Md Mainul Islam has called for holding offenders accountable while ensuring that innocent individuals are not harassed during investigations.
He highlighted the importance of intelligence-based policing, crime prevention, and respect for citizens at police stations, while speaking at the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) October Crime Review meeting at the Bangladesh Police Auditorium in Dhaka’s Rajarbagh on Saturday.
DMP Commissioner Md Mainul Hasan presided over the meeting.
The IGP also directed police officers to identify crime hotspots and work in coordination with local citizens' committees, strengthening these groups to take necessary measures to prevent crime.
“When a crime occurs, it cannot be hidden. The real criminals must be arrested. Those who are guilty cannot be exempted. However, care must be taken to ensure that innocent and vulnerable individuals are not harassed during investigations,” he said.
The IGP stressed that the police force is a vital state institution, with the primary purpose of serving the people. He emphasized that the police force should be developed in alignment with the needs of the public through dedicated service, with all police officers working as a cohesive team.
Highlighting the importance of intelligence-based policing, the IGP noted that crimes such as theft, robbery, juvenile gangs, and other organised crimes should be prevented through proactive intelligence gathering. He stressed the importance of preventing crime before it occurs.
The IGP also urged officers-in-charge of police stations to treat visitors well, as police stations are central to the public’s interaction with the police. He stated that anyone who comes to the police station is likely to be a plaintiff, victim, or witness, and that the police’s image can be enhanced by providing proper service and treating people with respect.
He acknowledged the traffic congestion issue in Dhaka city, thanking the DMP's traffic department for improving the traffic system. He also provided various directives for further improvements.
The IGP added that regular modern training in various professional areas will be provided to police personnel at all levels to enhance their professional skills.
In his speech, DMP Commissioner Md Mainul Hasan stated that DMP is always ready to serve Dhaka’s population of 2.5 crore.
“We must work with the utmost professionalism to maintain law and order in this metropolis and serve its citizens,” he said.
He also noted that the law and order situation has improved since his tenure began, crediting the efforts of the police. He acknowledged the challenges faced in the profession and urged officers to prepare for future challenges in order to effectively address them.
Senior DMP officials were present during the meerting.