Attacks on law enforcers concerning

We are indeed alarmed to see the rise in the number of attacks on law enforcement officials around the country. Per a report by this daily, at least 213 cases of assault on law enforcers were recorded in the first four months this year. Recent incidents in Brahmanbaria, Natore, Dhaka, and Narayanganj districts demonstrate how organised criminals are becoming more aggressive and emboldened. In one such case, three members of Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) were allegedly held hostage and assaulted for hours by a criminal gang while conducting routine intelligence work in plainclothes in Brahmanbaria. In Natore, suspected drug peddlers reportedly attacked Rab members during an anti-drug drive. In Dhaka’s Mohammadpur, police officials were attacked while chasing suspected muggers. Earlier this year, a Rab officer was beaten to death during an operation in Chattogram’s Sitakunda. These incidents raise a serious question: why are criminals becoming so desperate and reckless?

Part of the answer may lie in the weakened state of our law enforcement agencies after the 2024 political changeover. As experts have noted, police and other agencies are still suffering from lesser operational capacity, low morale, uncertainty over postings, and declining public trust. Criminal groups, many of which are operating under political or economic patronage, may be working under the impression that the state is still in a vulnerable phase. The rise of “mob culture,” where large crowds openly challenge state authority, has made the situation worse.

Another issue is the use of plainclothes during operations without any visible identification. While some intelligence work may require plainclothes, this practice can create confusion and misunderstanding. According to the 2016 Supreme Court guidelines, law enforcers must identify themselves before making an arrest and are not permitted to carry out arrests in plainclothes. These safeguards exist for a good reason. In a climate of mistrust and heightened tension, unidentified individuals carrying out raids or arrests can easily be mistaken for rival gangs or criminal groups, which can quickly lead to violence. Adherence to clear operational protocols is therefore essential.

What is necessary now is professional and disciplined policing. Law enforcement agencies must strictly follow operational rules and strengthen accountability to rebuild public trust. At the same time, the government must send a clear message that attacks on law enforcers will not be tolerated. All such incidents must be properly investigated, and those responsible must be brought to justice. Experts have also called for the wider use of specialised units in joint operations against organised criminal groups. Above all, restoring public confidence in law enforcement agencies is essential.