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Why are organised crimes on the rise?

Published : Monday, 15 July, 2024 at 12:00 AM  Count : 293
Dr Matiur Rahman
Organised crime refers to unlawful activities carried out by structured groups that operate with high coordination and secrecy. These groups are often involved in a variety of illegal enterprises, such as drug trafficking, extortion, money laundering, human trafficking, and other criminal endeavours. 

Unlike individual criminal acts, organised crime is characterised by its systematic approach, long-term planning, and the use of corruption, violence, and intimidation to maintain control and protect their operations. The primary objective of these groups is typically financial gain, achieved through the exploitation of illegal markets and services.

Bangladesh has experienced significant socio-economic transformations in recent years, inevitably impacting various aspects of society, including crime. Organised crime has become an increasing concern among the different forms of criminal activity. The rise in organised crime is not only a reflection of the evolving criminal landscape but also an indicator of underlying systemic issues that need urgent attention.

One of Bangladeshs most alarming forms of organised crime is disseminating question papers in public examinations. This malpractice has tarnished the integrity of the educational system and eroded public trust in the fairness of the academic process. The phenomenon of question paper leaks has become so pervasive that it has created a parallel economy where vast sums of money change hands. Criminal syndicates involved in this trade operate with a high degree of sophistication, often involving insiders within the education sector. The consequences of these leaks are far-reaching, affecting students futures, academic standards, and the overall credibility of educational institutions.

Another significant area where organised crime has made its mark is in the trafficking of drugs. Bangladesh, due to its geographical location, has become a transit point for narcotics smuggling. The narcotics trade is a well-organized network involving international drug cartels, local distributors, and corrupt officials. This trade not only fuels crime but also poses severe public health challenges. The influx of drugs has led to an increase in addiction rates, particularly among the youth, which in turn contributes to other social issues like crime, violence, and family breakdowns.

Human trafficking is another grave issue plaguing Bangladesh. The country is a source, transit, and destination for human trafficking, including forced labour and sex trafficking. Organised crime syndicates exploit vulnerable populations, often promising them lucrative job opportunities abroad, only to trap them in situations of exploitation and abuse. The human trafficking networks are intricate, usually involving multiple actors across different countries, making it a challenging crime to combat. The impact on victims is devastating, stripping them of their dignity, freedom, and human rights.

Financial crimes have also seen a surge, with money laundering and fraud becoming increasingly prevalent. These crimes are often perpetrated by well-organized groups who exploit loopholes in the financial system. The illicit flow of money undermines the economy and funds other criminal activities, creating a vicious cycle of crime and corruption. The financial sector, in particular, has been vulnerable, with several high-profile cases highlighting the extent of the problem. The lack of stringent regulatory mechanisms and oversight has made thriving these criminal networks easier.

Furthermore, organised crime in Bangladesh extends to extortion and racketeering. Businesses, tiny and medium enterprises, often fall prey to extortionists who demand protection money. These criminal groups operate with impunity, sometimes with the tacit support of local authorities. The economic toll on businesses is significant, increasing business costs and stifling entrepreneurship. The climate of fear and intimidation also has broader social implications, eroding the rule of law and fostering a culture of impunity.

The rise in organised crime is also linked to political factors. In many instances, criminal networks have been found to have connections with political figures, providing them with protection and facilitating their activities. This nexus between crime and politics complicates efforts to combat organised crime, often leading to selective law enforcement and corruption within law enforcement agencies. The politicisation of crime control measures undermines public confidence in the justice system and perpetuates a cycle of criminality and impunity.

Efforts to combat organised crime in Bangladesh have been met with mixed results. While there have been some high-profile arrests and crackdowns, the deeply entrenched nature of these criminal networks makes it a daunting task. Law enforcement agencies often lack the resources, training, and autonomy to tackle organised crime effectively. Moreover, corruption within these agencies further complicates the situation, allowing criminal elements to operate with relative freedom. There is a pressing need for comprehensive reforms to strengthen the legal and institutional framework to address organised crime.

Public awareness and community involvement are also crucial in combating organised crime. Educating citizens about the dangers and signs of organised crime can empower them to take preventive measures and report suspicious activities. Civil society organisations are vital in advocating for victims, raising awareness, and pushing for policy changes. Building a robust civil society response is essential for creating a holistic approach to tackling organised crime.

The international dimension of organised crime necessitates cooperation with other countries and international organisations. Cross-border collaboration is essential for disrupting transnational criminal networks and addressing crimes like human trafficking and drug smuggling. Bangladesh must actively engage with regional and global partners to enhance intelligence sharing, joint operations, and capacity building. Strengthening international cooperation will provide a more comprehensive and coordinated response to the complex challenge of organised crime.

The rise of organised crime in Bangladesh is a multifaceted issue that requires a multidimensional response. The leakage of question papers in public examinations is just one symptom of a deeper problem that spans various sectors and affects multiple aspects of society. Addressing this issue requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including the government, law enforcement agencies, civil society, and the international community. By adopting a comprehensive approach that includes legal reforms, capacity building, public awareness, and international cooperation, Bangladesh can make significant strides in combating organised crime and ensuring a safer, more just society for all its citizens.

The writer is a researcher and development worker



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