Criminal activities in Dhaka are increasing at an alarming rate, turning several zones into danger zones for residents. Incidents such as mugging, drug trafficking, extortion, gang violence, and cybercrime are on a disturbing upward trajectory. From bustling marketplaces to quiet residential areas, a general sense of insecurity looms. A burgeoning population, urban mismanagement, and insufficient policing have created the perfect conditions for criminal activities to thrive. Consequently, public fear and frustration continue to rise.
Areas such as Mohammadpur, Adabor, Dhanmondi, and Hazaribagh remain prominent crime hubs. These neighborhoods house over 50 active gangs involved in drug trade, mugging, robbery, and extortion. Mohammadpur, particularly around Dhaka Udyan, Basila Bridge, and Taj Mahal Road, is notorious for daylight mugging. Other areas like Tejgaon, Uttara, and Mirpur also experience frequent snatching incidents. In June 2025, six robbers were arrested in Mirpur-10 for stealing Tk 2.1 million. Slums like Kallyanpur and Pirerbag continue to serve as strongholds for drug-related crimes. Meanwhile, Jatrabari, Paltan, Shamibagh, Shahbagh, and Motijheel are plagued by theft, robbery, and gang activity.
The nature of crime in Dhaka is diversifying and becoming more complex. Street crimes such as pickpocketing, mugging, and robbery are rapidly rising, especially in congested and vulnerable urban areas. The drug trade remains rampant, particularly in slums. Gang violence and turf wars are becoming normalized, and extortion is increasingly widespread. Cybercrime is another growing concern, with online fraud, blackmail, and scams targeting youth and small businesses, deepening the sense of insecurity in the city.
Organized crime and local gangs are tightening their grip on areas like Mohammadpur, Hazaribagh, and Jatrabari. These groups are deeply embedded in narcotics trafficking, extortion, contract killings, and illegal arms sales. Many operate under political patronage, which often paralyzes law enforcement. They expand their influence through intimidation, recruitment of unemployed youth, and control over slums and transportation routes-seriously threatening the city's security.
The rise in crime stems from interlinked socio-economic and political issues. High unemployment and poverty push many toward criminal activity. Political protection allows some groups to operate with impunity. Drug addiction fuels both individual crimes and organized syndicates. Unchecked urbanization leads to unmonitored spaces, overburdening the police. A lack of education and social support leaves youth vulnerable to gang recruitment. Together, these factors create fertile ground for sustained criminal activity.
Dhaka's haphazard urban sprawl and poor monitoring offer ideal cover for criminal operations. Dark alleys in residential areas provide hideouts, especially at night. The lack of functioning CCTV cameras in key locations hampers effective surveillance. Slum overpopulation and illegal squatter settlements further aid criminals by offering sanctuary. The disconnect between urban planning and security infrastructure is a critical enabler of crime.
Government agencies, NGOs, and youth organizations are working actively
to improve urban safety. Community patrols and neighborhood watch
programs have been initiated in vulnerable zones. NGOs conduct drug
prevention sessions, women's safety workshops, and digital security
campaigns.
Law enforcement in Dhaka faces significant structural and functional challenges. A shortage of manpower undermines surveillance and emergency response. The lack of modern investigative tools-such as computer forensics and real-time monitoring systems-compromises the effectiveness of investigations. Corruption and political interference further erode police credibility and performance, ultimately limiting their ability to enforce law and protect citizens.
The increasing crime rate in Dhaka has taken a toll on public security and mental health. Constant threats of mugging, harassment, and assault, even during daylight, have left residents-especially women, students, and daily commuters-living in fear. Many avoid public transport or specific areas altogether. This perpetual sense of insecurity affects mental well-being, reduces mobility, and erodes public trust in law enforcement.
Teenagers are increasingly being drawn into criminal activities due to unemployment, poverty, and a lack of social support. Many are enticed by gangs promising power and quick wealth. Peer pressure and exposure to drug use exacerbate the problem. With limited recreational opportunities, job prospects, or guidance, many youths fall into cycles of violence and crime.
Cybercrime is also expanding rapidly. Criminals now exploit social media and web platforms for hacking, identity theft, phishing, and fraud. Around 21.6% of cybercrimes in Dhaka target women and young adults through honey-traps, blackmail, and online harassment. These crimes inflict significant emotional and financial trauma. Emerging threats like app-based scams and SMS phishing are evolving faster than enforcement efforts, worsening public insecurity and psychological distress.
Despite the challenges, government agencies, NGOs, and youth organizations are working actively to improve urban safety. Community patrols and neighborhood watch programs have been initiated in vulnerable zones. NGOs conduct drug prevention sessions, women's safety workshops, and digital security campaigns. Youth-led movements on social media are raising awareness of peer susceptibility to crime and educating citizens about their rights. Grassroots efforts aim to strengthen community bonds, build trust with law enforcement, and reclaim public spaces.
To combat the rising crime rate in Dhaka, a multi-dimensional strategy is essential. Community policing must be strengthened to foster trust and enhance local vigilance. Enforcing harsher penalties and ensuring their application can act as deterrents. Youth rehabilitation programs should provide alternatives to gang involvement. Urban safety initiatives such as improved street lighting and widespread CCTV coverage are critical. Lastly, boosting digital surveillance and public awareness can significantly curb both street and cybercrimes.
The writer is an LLB student, Department of Law, World University of Bangladesh
