Public Trust Key to Crime Control, Says PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday said effective crime control would become easier if stronger trust is established between the police and the public, urging law enforcement personnel to act with professionalism, humanity, and integrity.

Speaking at the Police Welfare Parade at the Rajarbagh Police Auditorium during Police Week 2026, the prime minister said the police must ensure that no innocent person faces harassment and that police stations become places where citizens feel safe seeking help.

He said the police administration should operate according to the law and remain free from partisan influence. According to him, the success of the police lies in becoming a symbol of trust and security for ordinary people.

The prime minister stressed that citizens are the owners of the state and should experience fairness and respect when they approach police stations in times of crisis. He said people usually seek police assistance only during difficult moments, making it essential for law enforcement agencies to respond with empathy and professionalism.

He also described police personnel as frontline representatives of the government, saying their actions and behaviour directly influence public confidence in the state.

Highlighting the importance of community engagement, Tarique Rahman called on police officials to strengthen public-oriented initiatives such as community policing and open house programmes to improve cooperation between citizens and law enforcement agencies.

The prime minister said the government remains committed to improving law and order and ensuring the safety of people and property. He noted that rebuilding public trust in the police is one of the major challenges facing the force.

He also reiterated the government’s tough stance against terrorism, corruption, drug trafficking, online gambling, organised crime, juvenile gangs, theft, robbery, and violence against women and children. He urged police authorities to intensify operations against drug suppliers and criminal networks through strict enforcement of the law.

Referring to the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, he emphasised the need for a modern, technology-based policing system using cyber policing, artificial intelligence, and big data analysis to combat emerging forms of crime.

The prime minister said the government is committed to protecting human rights and ensuring the rule of law, adding that enforced disappearances, abductions, and extrajudicial activities are unacceptable.

He further said the government aims to strengthen professionalism, transparency, and public confidence within the police force by prioritising merit, efficiency, and integrity in recruitment, promotion, and transfers.

Tarique Rahman also acknowledged the challenges faced by police personnel, including housing, medical services, allowances, and training needs. He said the government would gradually address these issues while working to build a more skilled and modern police force.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, Inspector General of Police Md Ali Hossain Fakir, and senior government officials attended the programme.