DHAKA, May 2, 2026 (BS) - Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Acting Commissioner Md. Sarwar has said that authorities will take strict action to suppress any emerging top criminals before they can establish themselves. Speaking to reporters today after inaugurating a police camp in the capital’s Karwan Bazar area, Sarwar stated that there are currently no significant “top criminals” active in the city.  However, he noted that some individuals—often former associates of past crime figures—are trying to rise to prominence.  “They are under constant surveillance, and necessary measures are being taken. There is no reason for concern,” he said. Addressing concerns about extortion in Karwan Bazar, the DMP chief explained that the newly established police camp aims to reduce crime in the area to near zero.  Police personnel will be deployed around the clock, and local business owners are encouraged to file complaints either openly or confidentially, he said, adding that the cases will be registered based on these allegations, and prompt action will follow. When asked whether a single camp is sufficient to control extortion, Sarwar emphasized that the initiative is part of a broader, coordinated effort across the capital.  Multiple DMP units—including the Detective Branch (DB), Crime Division, and Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC)—will work together to tackle extortion and related offenses. He further warned that law enforcement will act against all forms of extortion without exception.  More than 20 police members will remain on duty at the camp at all times, he said, adding that regular drive will continue to combat both extortion and drug-related crimes. Sarwar expressed hope that controlling extortion would bring relief to businessmen and contribute to stabilizing market prices. Responding to allegations that police sometimes refuse to register cases, the commissioner said it is the responsibilities of the police stations to accept complaints.  If issues arise, victims can approach one of the 24 zonal Assistant Commissioner (AC) offices or the eight divisional Deputy Commissioner (DC) offices, he also said.  Allegations can also be filed against any officer who refuses to take a case, and appropriate action will be taken, he continued.  Regarding misconduct within the police force, Sarwar reiterated a zero-tolerance policy.  “Any officer found involved in criminal activities faces strict departmental action, including dismissal,” he warned.  He noted that several police members have been arrested and jailed in recent weeks, and investigations are ongoing even based on verbal allegations.

SIRAJGANJ, May 2, 2026 (BSS) - A 20-day campaign aimed at identifying women suffering from obstetric fistula was inaugurated at Shahjadpur Upazila Health and Family Planning Office in Sirajganj today, marking the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula. The initiative has been jointly organised by the Health Department and the Family Planning Department, with technical support from the Centre for Injury Prevention and Research, Bangladesh (CIPRB) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Bangladesh. The campaign is being held under the global theme "Act Now to End Fistula by 2030," focusing on accelerating progress toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Dr Md Masud Rana inaugurated the programme. Among others, Residential Medical Officer of the Upazila Health Complex Dr Muhammad Shamim Hossain, Dr Muhammad Juwel Rana and Dr Shamim Reza were present. CIPRB District Coordinator Saiful Islam Sharif urged all participating doctors and specialists to extend full cooperation to ensure proper identification and treatment of affected women. Other officials, including nursing supervisors, sanitary inspectors, health inspectors, government inspectors, health assistants and midwives, also attended the event. During the discussion, participants identified four suspected fistula cases. The campaign will continue from May 2 to May 20. Under the programme, suspected patients will first undergo preliminary screening and then be referred to the District Hospital Fistula Corner for diagnosis. Confirmed cases will be sent to the National Fistula Centre at Dhaka Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment. UNFPA and CIPRB will cover treatment and transportation costs, while additional support will be provided for post-treatment rehabilitation of the patients.