Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzat Ali on Monday issued a formal apology following public outcry over his recent comments on the term “rape” during an event. In a statement, the Commissioner clarified his stance, saying, “While discussing the issue of abuse of women and children, I referred to rape as a larger form of abuse. If anyone has been offended by my statement, I apologise.” CA’s office condemns DMP chief’s remark on "rape" The apology comes in the wake of increased public discourse on sensitive issues such as sexual violence, with many questioning the role of law enforcement in addressing these crimes. Earlier, the Office of the Chief Adviser (CA) condemned the remarks made by the DMP Commissioner, emphasising the importance of using the correct terminology in addressing sexual violence. "Rape is rape, whether committed against an 8-year-old or an 80-year-old. Such a heinous crime must be called by its rightful name," the statement said on Sunday. The CA’s office added that the interim government will not tolerate any form of violence against any citizen of Bangladesh. 4 arrested over rape of 19-year-old girl in Jashore The controversy ignited after DMP Commissioner Ali's speech on Saturday, in which he urged the media to refrain from using the term “rape.” He said, “There are two words I dislike, one of which is ‘rape.’ I request you not to use it. Instead, say ‘violence against women’ or ‘abuse.’ Our law also refers to it as violence against women and children. Let’s not use words that sound unpleasant.” Prime accused in Magura child rape case gives confessional statement

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzat Ali announced on Saturday that private security personnel would be appointed as auxiliary police during Ramadan and Eid celebrations. Speaking at a press conference at the DMP Media Centre, the commissioner explained that he has the authority to assign auxiliary (assistant) police forces in shopping malls and residential areas, saying, “They will have a band in their hands. It will be written auxiliary police and they have the authority to make arrests.” Baitul Mukarram turns into a battlefield as police confront Hizb ut-Tahrir men Besides, they will receive legal protection similar to that of regular police officers, he said. The DMP commissioner emphasised that shopping malls in Dhaka remain open late into the night during Ramadan and Eid, saying that certain alleys in the city become deserted during Tarawih prayers. To ensure security during this period, he urged residents to take precautionary measures when leaving their homes or businesses, particularly as many police personnel will be on leave during the holidays. Govt taking swift action against mob violence: Home Adviser "As the DMP Commissioner, I want to request that when you go home for Eid, you manage the security of your house, flat, shop, and business establishments at your own responsibility," he said. He added, "We are with you, but due to a shortage of police, many officers will be on leave. Those who remain will also have their families absent for extended periods, and we need to grant them leave as per government instructions."  

Reassuring that there is no security threat, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali on Thursday said that multi-tier security measures have been put in place at the Central Shaheed Minar ahead of 21st February. He said that floral tributes will be organised in three phases, with VVIPs and VIPs laying flowers from 12:01 am to 12:40 am. To avoid inconvenience, the general people have been requested not to arrive during this period. The Palashi Gate near Dhaka University will be opened for public entry at 12:40 am. Addressing a security briefing in Dhaka on Thursday regarding preparations for the observance of International Mother Language Day, Commissioner Sajjat Ali urged visitors to adhere to the designated timings and maintain discipline while paying tribute at the monument. Operation Devil Hunt: 532 arrested across Bangladesh Police personnel will remain on high alert in the area until 2 pm on 21st February. While law enforcement authorities will remain vigilant, visitors are advised to take responsibility for their personal belongings such as mobile phones and wallets. A mobile police unit will be stationed within a one-kilometre radius to respond to any emergencies. The commissioner also dismissed concerns about security risks posed by top criminals on bail, stating that they are not associated with the Shaheed Minar event. Additionally, there is no threat of militant attacks. He emphasised that law and order have significantly improved, with police officers working with heightened morale. To further enhance security, seven designated points around the Shaheed Minar will be barricaded between 8 pm and 9 pm tonight. Meanwhile, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police has issued specific route guidelines for the public paying homage at the Central Shaheed Minar on International Mother Language Day. According to a DMP media release, attendees are advised to follow these designated routes. The prescribed entry route for the Shaheed Minar includes Palashi Crossing – Sculpture Crossing – Jagannath Hall Crossing, while the exit route will be via Ramna Crossing – Doel Chattar. Diversions will be enforced at Shahbagh Crossing, Nilkhet Crossing, Shahidullah Hall Crossing, Chankharpul Crossing, Palashi Crossing, and Bakshibazar Crossing to ensure smooth movement and security. Authorities have called on the public to follow these instructions to facilitate an orderly and safe tribute at the Central Shaheed Minar.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzat Ali has instructed police officers to prioritise the investigation of cases linked to the Anti-Discrimination Movement. Speaking at DMP's monthly crime-review meeting for January 2025 held at the Bangladesh Police Auditorium in Rajarbagh on Wednesday, he stressed the need for swift case resolutions and urged officers to intensify efforts in executing warrants and recovering illegal drugs. The DMP chief also highlighted the ongoing ‘Operation Devil Hunt,’ aimed at bringing criminals to justice. This special drive targets offenders involved in abductions, robberies, extortion and other major crimes, including those responsible for killings during last year’s July-August student protests. He underscored the importance of arresting snatchers and extortionists, calling on all DMP stations and outposts to enhance their vigilance and operational effectiveness. Tackling Dhaka’s Traffic Woes Commissioner Sazzat Ali also turned his focus to Dhaka’s severe traffic congestion, calling it one of the capital’s most pressing issues. Ex-CMP commissioner Saiful arrested in Dhaka He pointed out that road blockades—often caused by protests from government and private organisations—exacerbate the problem and must be curtailed. He instructed the traffic department to implement stricter measures to control overspeeding and ensure smoother vehicular movement across the city. Crime Statistics During the meeting, Joint Police Commissioner (Crime) Md. Faruk Hossain presented an analysis of January 2025’s crime statistics. The report covered various incidents, including robberies, dacoities, thefts, murders, unnatural deaths, road accidents, violence against women and children, rape, drug seizures and weapons recovery. Senior police officials, including Additional Police Commissioner (Traffic) Md Sarwar, Additional Police Commissioner (Crime and Operations) SN Md Nazrul Islam, as well as Joint Police Commissioners, Deputy Police Commissioners, and Officers-in-Charge of various police stations, were present. The Commissioner urged all officers to perform their duties with dedication, ensuring a safer and more disciplined Dhaka.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Mohammad Sajjat Ali has announced that a policy is being drafted concerning the operation of battery-run rickshaws. Under the proposed guidelines, no individual would be permitted to own more than one battery-powered rickshaw, in line with the principle that the driver should also be the owner, he said during a meeting with battery-run rickshaw owners and workers' associations at the DMP headquarters on Thursday afternoon. While highlighting the challenges associated with these vehicles, he said, “Although battery-powered rickshaws have created employment opportunities, they have also led to various problems. We must collectively address these issues.” He urged owners and drivers to ensure these rickshaws avoid major roads and bus routes. He also instructed authorities to take legal action against battery-powered rickshaws entering Dhaka from outside the metropolitan area. Sufficient security measures taken for Ekushey Boi Mela: DMP Commissioner During the meeting, the commissioner issued a firm warning against extortion in the transport sector, stating, “Any form of extortion will not be tolerated. Neither owners nor workers should pay any extortion money. If anyone demands such payments, report it to the nearest police station or outpost.” Representatives from rickshaw owners and workers' associations raised several concerns and requested the DMP Commissioner's intervention in resolving them.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzat Ali has assured all that there is no security threat surrounding the big student gathering for or the Thirty-First Night celebrations. In a media briefing held on Tuesday at the DMP Media Centre, he outlined the security measures planned for the Thirty-First Night and English New Year celebrations in Dhaka. Tapan Kumar Biswas, Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, was also [resent at the briefing who discussed initiatives to prevent fireworks, cluster bombs and sky lanterns during the festivities. Enhanced Security Deployment The DMP Commissioner announced that additional 3,000 police personnel have been deployed across the metropolitan area to ensure safety. DMP issues traffic guidelines for Shaheed Minar-centric events on Dec 31 Explaining the arrangement, he said, "Regular police deployment includes patrol teams from every outpost and multiple teams from each station. For the Thirty-First Night, we have added 3,000 officers to our regular deployment, targeting key areas like Dhaka University, Gulshan, the 300-feet road, and Uttara Diabari." Environment magistrates from the Department of Environment will collaborate with the police, conducting mobile courts to enforce regulations where necessary, he added. Efforts Against Noise Pollution Tapan Kumar Biswas highlighted efforts to address excessive noise pollution during the celebrations. "Mobile courts will be active across Dhaka and other parts of the country. They will enforce existing laws, imposing fines and other legal actions against violations," he said. Crackdown on Illegal Fireworks In preparation for the celebrations, the DMP conducted raids over the past week, seizing 127 kg of fireworks, including cluster bombs and rocket bombs. Five cases were filed, and five individuals were arrested in connection with the seizures. "We urge citizens to cooperate in curbing noise pollution. It's not just the responsibility of the police or the Department of Environment; every individual must contribute," the Commissioner said. A Controlled Celebration Responding to questions about why Bangladesh faces unique environmental challenges compared to other countries that celebrate with fireworks, the Commissioner explained, "Globally, New Year celebrations often occur in designated areas. Here, we lack such arrangements, but we are considering organising controlled events in specific locations in Dhaka in the future." Police Morale and Preparedness About concerns about police morale, he reassured that the force has overcome previous setbacks. "The challenges that lowered our morale have been addressed. We are in a much better state now," he affirmed. Govt issues directives for Tabligh Jamaat activities to maintain peace He reiterated that no specific threats have been identified for the celebrations, emphasising the readiness of law enforcement to ensure public safety. As Dhaka gears up to welcome the New Year, both the DMP and the Department of Environment have called for public cooperation to make the festivities safe and environmentally responsible.

List of extortionists in Dhaka city is being prepared and drives against them will begin within two or three days, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sazzat Ali on Saturday. “The prices of essential commodities are on the rise due to extortion and no one involved in extortion will be spared, ” he said at a view-exchange meeting with police, students and residents of Ramna area at Institution of Diploma Engineers in the capital. He said low and middle income group people have been going through terrible hardship due to the skyrocketing prices of daily essentials caused by the extortion. Commerce Adviser mourns Hassan Ariff's death Noting that the mugging incidents in Dhaka have increased, Sazzat urged people to be cautious while moving on roads. He also urged hawkers to refrain from extortion and to do their business in an orderly manner on streets. Foreign Affairs Adviser mourns death of AF Hassan Ariff Besides, terming the motorcycle as a risky vehicle, the DMP boss assured that the discipline will be brought in traffic system. Expressing concern over the excessive use of horns in traffic congestion, the DMP commissioner said, “Drivers who repeatedly blow their horns will face action soon.”

A delegation from the US Embassy paid a courtesy visit to Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Mohammad Sajjat Ali on Tuesday. The delegation, led by Eric Geelan, political and economic counselor at the US Embassy in Dhaka, met the commissioner at the DMP Headquarters. The meeting was attended by several officials, including the US Embassy’s Regional Security Officer Daniel Blackmore, Political Officer Hermanoschy Bernard, Department of Justice’s Program Management Specialist Tanik Munir, and Senior Nabil Mahmud. Senior DMP officials were also present during the discussions. During the meeting, both parties emphasized the importance of continuing cooperation to enhance the bilateral relationship between DMP and the US Embassy. Commodity prices to stay below normal during Ramadan: Commerce Adviser They also discussed future action plans, improving the efficiency of CTTC officials, and mutual collaboration to combat crimes such as terrorism, cybercrime, and transnational crime. The meeting also focused on ways to strengthen professional development and mutual support for the enhancement of capabilities.  

DMP Commissioner Sheikh Sajjad Al on Monday expressed concern over Dhaka’s traffic situation and stressed the need for raising public awareness to resolve the issue. “Commuters are ignoring the traffic rules. Street vendors occupy footpaths and motorbikes ply on footpaths where pedestrians walk. Since joining on November 21, I have been closely observing these issues. To resolve this chaotic traffic system, public awareness is necessary,” he said at a press briefing at the DMP media center. After August 5, when the police became inactive the law and order situation deteriorated, leading to rise in the incidents of theft, robbery and overall instability. “With everyone's cooperation we have managed to overcome those challenges.” Rickshaw is essential to Dhaka, but e-rickshaw is not: DMP commissioner “In Dhaka, we should ideally have 25% road space but we currently have only 7%. Auto-rickshaws, which were approved during the previous government’s tenure, are adding to the congestion. If these continue, there will be no space for vehicles in Dhaka,” said the Dhaka Metropolitan Police(DMP) Commissioner. Sajjad Ali suggested people to try to live closer to their children's schools or workplaces which could reduce the need for car usage. He also expressed concern about the growing number of motorbike users who ride the vehicle carrying their entire family on it, noting that such practices are highly dangerous. "I have instructed the authorities to take action if such practices are observed," he said. Expressing concern over the rising snatching incidents particularly during the early hours of the day, the DMP chief said he instructed the Detective Branch (DB) to remain vigilant about the crimes. He said he is holding meetings at each police station and emphasised the importance of working with public feedback. DMP files 2,683 cases for breaching traffic rules In response to a journalist's question, he said they have a plan to introduce a complaint box and hold open discussions to gather public suggestions. The DMP commissioner further apologised for the action taken by DMP during the July protests, adding, "I apologise to the people of the country for the activities that went beyond our professional boundaries. The officers involved have been transferred and disciplinary actions have been taken. We have now started a new phase of service to people."

Mentioning that the three-wheeler vehicle is essential for the sake of the people, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali on Tuesday said that the auto-rickshaws is responsible for reducing the walk-able spaces in Dhaka city. “Two phases of meetings have been held with the representatives of the auto-rickshaw drivers but we must ensure that the numbers of three wheelers should not be increased,” he said. The DMP commissioner came up with the information while speaking at a view-exchange meeting with students, local people and citizens of Mohammadpur area, held at a community center in Mohammadpur's Ring Road area. 'Our main job is to serve the people': DMP Commissioner The main priority of police is to ensure public safety and he assured that all security-related tasks would be implemented with utmost priority. "Support the police, and we are committed to providing you with the highest level of service," he said. "Our initiatives to improve the police’s image are ongoing. The residents of Mohammadpur were well aware that after August 5 how they feel insecure as stolen and robbery incidents can disrupt their lives if the police remain inactive. Cooperate with the police to maintain law and order and prevent crime,” he added. DMP files 2,683 cases for breaching traffic rules Referring to extortionists in Mohammadpur, he said, "Most extortionists in Mohammadpur are residents of this area. Identify and resist the wrongdoers among your neighbors. The extortion gang on footpaths is being monitored and legal actions are being taken promptly." He also urged the political leaders to refrain from holding rallies and procession in designated areas instead of open streets as it would reduce public inconvenience. He also urged them to shun the tactic of blocking roads. Issuing a stern warning against drug-related activities, the commissioner said, "All-out measures are being taken to combat drugs. Drug dealers will not be spared under any circumstances.”