Urgent steps needed : Teenage gangs dominate Hathazari
Md Hossain, Hathazari ( Chattogram)
In Hathazari, Chattogram district, the activities of teenage gangs have risen. They are getting involved in all kinds of crimes, from public beatings, extortion, and robbery to harassing women. This has caused panic among the local population. Almost every week, people of various ages are becoming victims of beatings and harassment by teenage gangs in different areas. Many young people have been reported to be seriously injured by machete attacks.
Locals report that in the past two years, the activities of teenage gangs have increased alarmingly. No one dares to speak out about them. Parents are worried and anxious. They are concerned about their children’s safe return after sending them to schools, colleges, and coaching classes. Various local sources claim that over the past two years, someone is being harassed by teenage gangs in the upazila and municipal town continuously.
After visiting various areas of the upazila and municipality and talking to locals, it has been found that the activities of these teenage gangs have increased significantly around most educational institutions in the municipal town.
If anyone tries to protest against them, they are also being humiliated; they are using the political party leaders’ influence. When spoke to those leaders, they said to write against those who commit crimes.
Multiple groups of teenage gangs are active in the municipal area.
Local residents claim that there are more than 10 teenage gang groups operating here, frightening the people. Some members of these gangs are perpetrating terror under the protection of local leaders of students' and youth organizations of political parties. However, the leaders of the political organizations have denied these allegations.
Despite knowing who leads the teenage gangs in the municipal area, the local residents are afraid to speak out.
There is also police activity against the teenage gangs. According to police sources, if any criminal activity is seen, they should inform the police station, and if the police do not arrive, calling 999 will result in the police arriving quickly.
The OC of Hathazari Model Police Station said, "We are in a strict position against teenage gangs. No leniency will be shown."
