Major crimes in the capital have significantly decreased in recent times, though minor offences have seen a slight increase, according to Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain, adviser for local government as well as sports and youth.
Speaking to journalists at Bijoy Sarani early on Wednesday after inspecting special security arrangements in the capital, Asif said law enforcement agencies had yet to return fully to their previous operational state following the July uprising.
He noted that restoring security forces was a long-term process, with recruitment and training initiatives underway to strengthen the force.
The adviser expressed optimism that law and order would improve soon.
Highlighting the involvement of the military alongside the police in recent crime control efforts, he mentioned that special operations were being carried out to bring identified criminals under the law.
He acknowledged the rise in crimes such as mugging, saying minor offences had slightly increased and that authorities were working to control the situation through special patrols and checkpoint installations.
"We have ensured a visible police presence at key intersections. With the support of the military and other security forces, block raids and surveillance operations are being conducted. We are hopeful that the situation will improve soon," the adviser said.
He emphasized that crime existed in every country, but it was the responsibility of the government and law enforcement agencies to keep it under control.
Reiterating that major crimes such as murder and robbery had significantly declined and mugging had slightly increased in recent times, he said he expected it to be brought under control soon.
Regarding viral crime videos on social media, Asif cautioned that such incidents often created public panic, making the situation appear worse than it actually was.
He stressed the importance of relying on statistics to understand the real crime scenario.
Asif also addressed concerns about extortion, acknowledging that following the July uprising, new individuals had taken over the roles of previous extortionists, often with political backing.
In this regard, he urged political and social leaders not to provide shelter to such criminals.
"We have seen leaders from various political parties openly brandishing weapons and declaring extortion demands. This is unfortunate. The government maintains a strict stance against extortionists, and law enforcement is actively taking action against them," he said.
About criminals released on bail, he said many former offenders were attempting to reconnect with their organizations, assuring everyone that law enforcement was keeping them under surveillance and would rearrest them if necessary.