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Published : 04 Mar 2026, 04:21 PM
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has said the government will prepare a nationwide list of extortionists and armed criminals and bring them under the law.
He announced the move on Wednesday while speaking to reporters after exchanging views with officials at the Dhaka Metropolitan Police Headquarters.
“I have given instructions on two issues. Very soon we will begin preparing a list of extortionists across the country, especially from Dhaka, and they will be brought under the law,” he said.
“A list of those who are armed, terrorists and criminals who create chaos in society is being prepared honestly. They will be brought under the law soon.”
Seeking cooperation from all quarters, the minister said the government would make its maximum effort to restore peace, improve law and order and ensure the rule of law.
“The current priority is to improve law and order and establish the rule of law in the country, providing relief to the public,” he said.
Referring to the past, Salahuddin said that Bangladesh had been under a “fascist government”, which had affected state institutions, including the police.
“From that place, we have gradually come to this stage today so that we can create this trust among the public. The police have returned to their historical role, allowing them to be seen as friends of the people. That is how we will run the police force.”
He said he had observed determination among police officials during the meeting.
“I have seen the body language of everyone. They are determined for the welfare of the country and the nation and are ready to make any kind of sacrifice.”
He also said the police institution should not be blamed for past actions.
“A few people carried out those activities because of a fascist regiment. The blame for which has fallen on this institution.”
The minister stressed the need to strengthen the institution so that the police operate under a system rather than individual authority.
“We will establish the rule of law and the police will operate according to the law. No arbitrary orders will be followed here.”
He added that the force would function with responsibility and accountability under its senior officials.
Expressing hope for the future, Salahuddin said the police would work with “the utmost sacrifice for the people”.
He said he had listened to the officers’ concerns and sought their advice on possible reforms.
When asked about the previous government’s police administration, the minister said: “The previous government is gone. With a government elected by the people in power, we can’t think about the past.”
He emphasised that police members must strictly follow the chain of command.
“Lower-ranking officers will follow the proper chain of command without bypassing their superiors while communicating with higher authorities.”
He said this system had already been established.
“If the IGP or commissioner of police thinks it is necessary to talk to any level, they will do so,” he said.
Responding to another question about Dhaka’s traffic management, Salahuddin said a special cell had been formed to address the issue.
“A report will be submitted on how to reduce traffic congestion,” he said.
He noted that the number of battery-powered rickshaws had grown rapidly and many were operating on roads where they were not permitted.
“There are main roads including VIP roads where these vehicles are not supposed to ply. We discussed how this can be controlled.”
Traffic control measures will first be introduced on the Uttara-Airport Road and the VIP Road leading to the Secretariat, he said, adding that the system would then be tested elsewhere on an experimental basis.
The home minister also stressed the importance of public awareness in following traffic laws.
Asked about possible changes to the police uniform, he replied: “Will changing the uniform change the mentality? Appropriate action will be taken after discussions with the police department.”
