Dhaka, Oct 13 (V7N) — Police operations across the country are currently facing challenges due to a manpower shortage, creating fear and uncertainty among citizens. From police stations to the traffic department, law enforcement is struggling to function effectively. In many cases, officers are tasked with handling multiple departments, limiting their ability to address public concerns fully.

A visit to Mohammadpur Police Station in Dhaka revealed a low turnout of service seekers. Officer-in-Charge Ali Iftekhar Hasan explained that the reduced activity is partly due to fear after recent mass uprisings, during which several officers lost their lives. “We have received directives to continue our work, but patrols are now conducted by hiring vehicles,” he added. A similar situation was observed in Mirpur Police Station, where officers are mostly engaged in routine work without significant additional activity.

Out of the 50 police stations in Dhaka, at least 30 are operating with minimal public engagement, raising concerns among citizens. Additionally, police stations like Jatrabari and Bhatar are yet to begin full operations in their own buildings.

The disruption in police activity has affected public safety. A resident of the city commented, “The public will not feel secure until law enforcement agencies resume their full operations.” Another citizen urged the need for community cooperation to help the police return to their usual capacity. However, the lack of visible area-based patrols and coordination among officers continues to be a challenge.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) officials acknowledged the difficulties. Talebur Rahman, the DMP spokesperson, mentioned that although patrol activities have resumed, they are still not at the level seen before the recent disturbances. “The situation is gradually improving,” he assured.

The police force is also grappling with internal challenges, including damage to nearly 400 police stations and thousands of vehicles during recent unrest. There are reports of friction among officers following transfers and reassignments, leading to delays in investigations and reduced operational effectiveness. Some departments, such as intelligence, are facing critical shortages of personnel.

DMP currently has four Joint Commissioners and seven Deputy Commissioners managing multiple departments each, creating additional strain on resources. There are also allegations that subordinate officers are not fully cooperating with their supervisors.

In addition, 187 police personnel remain absent from duty, disregarding government directives. Notable among them are senior officials Haroon Or Rashid, Biplab Kumar Sarkar, Praloy Jowardar, and Monirul Islam. Police headquarters confirmed that ten officers have already been arrested, while investigations are ongoing to determine further action.

Imamul Haque Sagar, Assistant Inspector General (Media) at Police Headquarters, said efforts are being made to address these challenges on a priority basis. "We are monitoring the situation regularly from the headquarters," he stated. Sagar also emphasized that only those officers with credible allegations against them have been detained and assured the public that there is no need for fear without specific complaints.

Officials stress that restoring public trust and cooperation is essential to bringing police operations back to normal. However, the current resource and personnel shortages pose significant barriers to achieving that goal in the short term.

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