Dr Matiur Rahman

Dhaka, the vibrant capital city of Bangladesh, is known for its bustling streets, diverse culture, and dynamic population. However, beneath the surface of this bustling metropolis lies a dark underbelly—a deadly teenage gang that has emerged as a potent threat to the city's social fabric and safety.

In recent months, residents of Dhaka city have been living in fear as reports of extortion, hijacking, violence, and drug trafficking by a deadly teenage gang continue to surface. Business owners, particularly in vulnerable neighbourhoods and footpaths, have been forced to pay protection money under the threat of violence, while residents have become wary of venturing out after dark.

The pervasive sense of insecurity has not only affected daily life but has also taken a toll on mental health, as anxiety and fear loom large in the minds of residents. Despite the efforts of law enforcement agencies to curb the activities of the gang, the complex socio-economic factors driving its existence and proliferation continue to pose significant challenges to ensuring the safety and well-being of Dhaka's residents.

The origins of the teenage gang in Dhaka city can be traced back to various socio-economic factors, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of opportunities for marginalised youth. Faced with limited prospects for a better future, many teenagers are drawn into the allure of gang life, seeking belonging, identity, and a sense of power in the face of adversity. What may start as a means of protection or camaraderie can quickly spiral into criminality, as peer pressure and external influences lead members down a path of violence and lawlessness.

Over time, the teenage gang in Dhaka has evolved, adopting sophisticated tactics and expanding its criminal activities to include extortion, drug trafficking, robbery, and even murder. Armed with weapons and fueled by a sense of impunity, these gangs operate with brazenness, instilling fear and insecurity among residents and authorities alike. The proliferation of social media and digital communication platforms has further facilitated the organisation and coordination of gang activities, posing significant challenges for law enforcement agencies in combating this menace.

The activities of the teenage gang in Dhaka city are characterised by violence, intimidation, and coercion. Extortion, in particular, has emerged as a lucrative source of income for these gangs, as they target businesses, vendors, and residents for protection money in exchange for "security" or the prevention of harm. Those who refuse to comply with their demands are met with threats, vandalism, or even physical assault, creating a climate of fear and lawlessness in affected neighbourhoods.

Drug trafficking is another prominent activity of the teenage gang, as they exploit vulnerable communities and exploit addiction for profit. By peddling drugs such as yaba, heroin, and marijuana, these gangs not only fuel addiction and social decay but also enrich themselves at the expense of their victims. Moreover, the involvement of teenagers in drug trafficking exposes them to the dangers of addiction, violence, and incarceration, perpetuating a cycle of crime and despair.

Robberies and muggings are also common tactics employed by the teenage gang, as they target unsuspecting victims on the streets, in parks, and in crowded areas. Armed with knives, machetes, or even firearms, gang members instil fear in their victims, demanding valuables, money, and mobile phones before fleeing the scene. These brazen acts of violence not only endanger the lives and livelihoods of residents but also undermine the sense of security and trust within the community.

The presence of a deadly teenage gang in Dhaka city has far-reaching implications on social life, affecting residents, businesses, and communities in profound ways. The pervasive sense of insecurity and fear engendered by the gang's activities restricts the freedom of movement and expression, as residents hesitate to venture out after dark or frequent certain areas deemed unsafe. This erosion of public space and community cohesion undermines the city's social fabric, isolating residents and perpetuating a cycle of mistrust and suspicion.

Moreover, the economic impact of the teenage gang extends beyond the immediate victims of extortion and robbery, affecting businesses and investment in affected neighbourhoods. Entrepreneurs and investors may be deterred from establishing or expanding businesses in areas plagued by gang violence, leading to a decline in economic opportunities and development. The resulting cycle of poverty and disinvestment further exacerbates the conditions that contribute to the recruitment and perpetuation of the gang.

The psychological toll of living under the shadow of a deadly teenage gang cannot be overstated as residents grapple with the constant threat of violence and insecurity. Fear, anxiety, and trauma become a pervasive reality for many, impacting mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. Children and adolescents, in particular, may experience heightened levels of stress and anxiety, affecting their academic performance, social interactions, and prospects.

Moreover, the breakdown of trust and social cohesion within communities affected by gang violence hinders collective action and solidarity in addressing underlying issues such as poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunities. Without a sense of safety and trust, residents may become increasingly isolated and vulnerable, further perpetuating the cycle of violence and despair.

The emergence of a deadly teenage gang in Dhaka city poses significant challenges to the social fabric, safety, and well-being of its residents. Rooted in socio-economic disparities and lack of opportunities for marginalised youth, this gang has evolved into a sophisticated criminal enterprise, engaging in extortion, hijacking, drug trafficking, and violence with impunity.

The implications of gang violence on social life are far-reaching, undermining community cohesion, economic development, and mental health.

Addressing the root causes of gang violence requires a comprehensive approach that addresses poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunities while also strengthening law enforcement, community engagement, and support services for at-risk youth. Dhaka city can only reclaim its streets and ensure a safer, more inclusive future for all residents through collective action and solidarity.

The writer is a researcher and development worker.