Dhaka: Law enforcement agencies are actively working to curb snatching incidents across the country, including in Dhaka city. State counsels are vigorously opposing bail petitions in cases filed regarding such incidents. Apart from the Penal Code, the Law and Order-Disruption (Speedy Trial) Act, 2002 is serving as a robust tool to prevent these criminal activities.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Omar Faruq Faruqi, public prosecutor (PP) of the Dhaka Metropolitan Sessions Judge Court, stated that the government has implemented strict measures to address snatching crimes, with the judiciary maintaining a firm stance on the issue. "We, representing the state, are strongly opposing bail for the accused. Law enforcement agencies are arresting the perpetrators," he said. Faruq emphasized the importance of relying on permanent residents as witnesses rather than floating individuals, which aids in proving cases effectively.
Faruq noted that floating witnesses often become untraceable, making it difficult to secure convictions. He added that bail is being denied to individuals facing multiple cases. Both the judiciary and state counsels are committed to keeping snatchers in custody, with special attention directed at cases related to snatching and robbery.
Advocate Syed Zainul Abedin Mezbah highlighted the severe impact snatching has on public security. He suggested that processing snatching cases under the speedy trial process would effectively help control the crimes. Zainul Abedin stressed the importance of recording witness statements under Section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) and suggested that strict High Court directives regarding bail could produce positive outcomes.
Md. Akter Hossain, deputy commissioner (Media and Public Relations) of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), pointed out that many muggers are habitual offenders, often repeating crimes after being released on bail. "We are now processing snatching cases under the Speedy Trial Act alongside standard legal procedures. This makes obtaining bail difficult and ensures swifter sentencing," he said. He urged victims to immediately contact authorities and file a report if mugged.
Supreme Court lawyer Khalid Hossain remarked that although the Penal Code prescribes severe penalties, delays in judicial proceedings reduce the deterrent effect. The Speedy Trial Act, which mandates case resolution within 30 to 60 days, is proving to be highly effective in addressing mugging cases. Legal experts and law enforcement officials emphasize the necessity of swift punishment to deter repeat offenses effectively.
The Penal Code defines mugging as 'robbery' under Section 390, with varying degrees of punishment based on the severity of the crime, including rigorous imprisonment and fines. The Law and Order Disruption (Speedy Trial) Act, 2002, considered the most effective law for preventing mugging, prescribes a minimum of two years to a maximum of seven years of rigorous imprisonment, in addition to fines, under Section 4.