Amid rising crime rates in recent times, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has appointed hundreds of security personnel to operate in various residential areas, shopping malls, and markets in the capital as part of the "Auxiliary Police Force."
Initially, the DMP recruited 500 security personnel for this force, with the possibility of increasing the number in the future based on the effectiveness of the initial recruitment.
Speaking to Dhaka Tribune on Monday evening, SN Nazrul Islam, additional commissioner (crime and operations) of the DMP, said: "Security personnel working in various residential areas, markets, and shopping malls are being empowered. We are granting key personnel within security teams the authority of the Auxiliary Police Force, allowing them to work alongside local police to combat crime."
Providing an example, he mentioned that residential areas such as Gulshan Society, Banani Society, Mohanogor Society, and Bashundhara Society have their own security arrangements. The DMP is selecting the heads of these security groups to serve as members of the Auxiliary Police Force.
"Currently, security personnel cannot detain individuals. However, after being granted authority, they will be able to detain suspects and immediately notify the nearest police officers. The same applies to security personnel in shopping malls and markets," added SN Nazrul Islam.
When asked about their compensation, the Additional Commissioner said: "We are not providing them with salaries or training; we are merely empowering them."
Earlier on Saturday, DMP Commissioner SM Sazzat Ali mentioned that this initiative was introduced to enhance security during Ramadan and the Eid shopping period, as many shopping centers will remain open late into the night.
What does the law say?
The appointment of the Auxiliary Police Force falls under Section 10 of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police Ordinance, 1976.
The ordinance, specifically the section concerning the Constitution and Organization of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police, grants the police commissioner the authority to appoint auxiliary forces when additional law enforcement support is required.
According to Subsection (2)(b) of Section 10, once appointed, auxiliary force members will have the same powers, immunities, duties, and authority as regular police officers.
Furthermore, these auxiliary members will receive legal protection equivalent to that of regular police officers.
"If anyone obstructs an auxiliary member from performing their duties or attacks them, legal action will be taken against the perpetrator," states the provision.
Members of the Auxiliary Police Force will have the authority to make arrests but must hand detainees over to the appropriate police patrol team or the nearest police station. The police will then conduct an investigation and take legal action based on their findings.
Unlike regular police officers, auxiliary members will not wear a police uniform. However, they will be issued armbands labeled "Auxiliary Police Force" to identify their role.
While many have praised this initiative, critics emphasize the need for thorough background verification before recruiting individuals into the Auxiliary Police Force to prevent potential misuse.