Relief looters to be dealt with strongly: Benazir

New Inspector General of Police Benazir Ahmed yesterday warned of stern action against those involved in misappropriation of relief goods during the coronavirus pandemic.

"We will not tolerate any misappropriation regarding relief. Strict action will be taken against those who will loot in the name of relief," said Benazir, also the outgoing Director General (DG) of Rapid Action Battalion (Rab).

He made the remarks from Rab headquarters, while addressing reporters through videoconference.

After serving five years and three months as Rab DG, he is expected to take over the charge of IGP tomorrow (April 15).

Benazir said, "Regrettably, even when the nation is battling the fallout of the coronavirus epidemic, we have seen that some are trying to plunder relief supplies. My clear message to them is that they will be dealt with a strong hand."

He called upon individuals and organisations to reach relief materials to doorsteps of people maintaining social distancing. "You have to maintain social distancing strictly while conducting any relief activity or seek government organistations' assistance if needed."

Despite repeated calls by government to maintain physical distancing, many are violating it, he said.

Benazir said there is no scope to consider the government-announced countrywide general closure as a vacation, picnic or an opportunity to gossip at tea stalls.

In replay to a journalist's query about taking steps regarding recent robbery incidents in two medicine shops in Dhaka, Benazir said many people have become jobless due to the countrywide shutdown, which may create some social problems.

"As medicine shops have been allowed to remain open round the clock, those may become the target of miscreants. Criminals who were involved in the two incidents have already been arrested," he added.

Benazir further said, "Tomorrow (today) is the Bengali New Year. This year, the new year's mood is quite different. I wish everyone a Happy New Year and request to maintain social and physical distance."