A surge in burglaries, armed robberies, and violent gang attacks across Lohagara Upazila in Chattogram has sparked widespread terror among residents.
According to local victims, between 30 and 40 organised incidents of theft, robbery, and mugging occurred over the past month alone, though police have yet to confirm official numbers.
Key incidents include an armed gang vandalising CCTV cameras, assaulting a security guard, and looting businesses at Monufokirhat in Borhatia Union on 2 September.
On 16 September, eight to twelve masked men held family members hostage at gunpoint in Chunti Union, beating occupants and looting Tk 211,500 in cash, two bhori of gold, and eight mobile phones.
Another major robbery in Amirabad Union involved the looting of valuables worth Tk 18 lakh.
Additionally, youth gang violence has escalated.
On 4 September, Nazrul Islam, a teacher at Ikra Abdul Jabbar High School, was stabbed five times in Amirabad.
Headmaster Jamal Uddin Sumon attributed the violence to a youth gang led by David Jihad.
Addressing public concern, Additional Superintendent of Police (Satkania Circle) Md Ariful Islam Siddiqui highlighted severe logistical constraints.
He explained that only three to four patrol teams cover the vast area, making door-to-door protection impossible.
He cited a lack of functioning CCTV footage, inaccurate DVR timestamps, and acute manpower shortages as major hurdles, while noting that an operation was ongoing in Chokoria regarding a robbery.
Siddiqui added that administrative discipline faced temporary disruption following the recent political transition, though police are gradually recovering.
He urged residents to remain vigilant, noting that local gangs frequently target empty homes when occupants travel.
