DMP Commissioner SM Sajjat Ali suggested people choose open fields or auditoriums instead of roads in Dhaka to press home their various demands.
“In recent times, various groups have resorted to road blockades to push for their demands. They think occupying roads will lead to the fulfillment of their demands, which only worsens the already fragile traffic system of Dhaka city, leaving commuters stranded for hours,” he said.
Sajjat Ali made the remarks while addressing the annual general meeting of the Crime Reporters’ Association of Bangladesh at Dhaka Club on Wednesday.
He said that the city's limited roads are particularly vulnerable and the closure of even a single road brings the entire city to a standstill.
“Sit with the authorities concerned to realize demands and it is important to ensure that the ongoing traffic crisis does not worsen further,” said the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) chief.
Acknowledging the increase in mugging incidents in Dhaka, he said those involved in mugging are aged between 20 to 22 years and commit such crimes to manage money for drugs.
The muggers see the best opportunity when people talk over mobile phones while keeping the windows of buses and microbuses open, he said.
“If you (residents) remain vigilant, it will be of assistance to us (police),” he added.
The DMP commissioner further said the detectives have been engaged in curbing the crime along with increasing police patrols during the day and night.
Police have been trying to resolve some problems that emerged after the fall of police confidence following August 5, he said.
The DMP commissioner also said that it was their responsibility to provide Dhaka residents with security and they were working toward that purpose.
“It will take time to change the mindset of the police, which has been shaped over the past 15 years and training for them has already been initiated,” he added.