Rising Wave of Robbery and Theft

A growing surge in robbery, dacoity, and street mugging across the country continues to unsettle public life, with incidents reported on highways, urban roads, and even residential neighbourhoods. Despite ongoing law enforcement operations, the scale of these crimes remains persistently high, fuelling widespread fear among commuters and residents alike.

Official figures indicate that between January and March this year, a total of 576 cases were filed nationwide in connection with robbery and dacoity. This averages around 192 cases per month, or more than six incidents every day. A broader review shows that between August 2024 and December 2025, 3,540 cases were recorded—an average of over 221 cases monthly, or nearly eight per day.

Monthly case breakdown (Jan–Mar)

The data suggests that although fluctuations occur month to month, the overall level of criminal activity remains alarmingly consistent.

Violence on the rise

Recent incidents underline the severity of the situation. In Fakirhat upazila of Bagerhat, a businessman was stabbed during a mugging attempt. In Dhaka’s Mohakhali area, a senior medical professional sustained stab injuries in a daylight attack and required hospitalisation. In Sirajganj, an auto-rickshaw driver was reportedly killed in what police suspect was a vehicle theft-related assault.

Law enforcement sources confirm that similar crimes are occurring daily across different parts of the country. However, the number of arrests remains comparatively low, raising concerns about deterrence and repeat offending.

Situation in the capital

Dhaka Metropolitan Police data reveals that nearly 100 cases of robbery and mugging were filed in the capital over the last three months alone. Intelligence reports further identify 432 mugging-prone locations across eight crime divisions, with approximately 979 active offenders operating in these areas.

Authorities note that many arrested suspects are released on bail and allegedly return to criminal activity, complicating sustained enforcement efforts.

Modus operandi and trends

Investigations show that around 65% of muggings involve motorcycles, enabling swift escapes. About 20% are carried out by organised groups, while the remaining 15% rely on deception or distraction tactics targeting pedestrians.

Police Headquarters data also reveals a steady rise in such offences over recent years. Cases have nearly doubled within five years:

In addition, between August and December 2024 alone, 16 people were reportedly killed in robbery-related violence.

Public safety concerns

Transport operators report that night-time travel has become particularly hazardous, with highways effectively falling under the influence of criminal groups in certain stretches. The Dhaka–Chattogram highway, in particular, has been identified as a high-risk corridor, alongside routes such as Dhaka–Aricha and Dhaka–Mymensingh.

Experts argue that stronger coordination, intelligence-led policing, and preventive patrolling are essential to restore public confidence. Without sustained intervention, they warn, the perception of insecurity is likely to deepen further, affecting both mobility and economic activity across the country.