New Meherpur SP vows action against teen gangs, online gambling

MEHERPUR, Oct 13: Newly appointed Superintendent of Police (SP) Ali Hayder Chowdhury on Sunday pledged strict action against teen gangs, online gambling, drug-related crimes and police corruption.

He made the remarks at an introductory meeting and exchange of views with journalists in the SP’s conference room.

Chowdhury sought journalists’ cooperation during his tenure, saying he wanted to make Meherpur a well-ordered district. He also listened to journalists’ concerns about various problems in the district.

He said teen gang activity is a major concern in Meherpur, as in other parts of Bangladesh, and vowed that those involved would receive no concessions. He said police would continue campaigns against teen crime, drugs and online gambling.

The SP also pledged a zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct, negligence of duty and corruption among police personnel. Any complaints of such behaviour would prompt immediate measures, including departmental action, he said.

“Police stations must become service-oriented centres, and every member of the force must behave professionally,” he said, adding that unprofessional conduct and corruption would not be tolerated.

Addressing traffic congestion, Chowdhury said three-wheelers, including battery-powered easy bikes, and other unauthorised vehicles would not be allowed on highways. He said police had been instructed to enforce the restrictions and regulate the movement of battery-powered rickshaws in accordance with the law.

He also acknowledged a shortage of parking facilities and terminals as contributing to traffic congestion and said police were working to address the problems.

On online gambling, Chowdhury said police had already registered several cases and arrested a number of suspects in the district. He described the problem as widespread but said its prevalence in Meherpur is a particular concern.

Two Additional SPs and journalists from print and electronic media attended the meeting.