DMP Settles 5,500 Minor Cases in Six Months

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has resolved more than 5,500 minor criminal cases through summary trials over the past six months, marking significant progress in its ongoing drive to ensure swift justice and maintain law and order in the capital.

According to official data, the DMP’s Special Metropolitan Magistrate Court disposed of 5,558 cases between March and August 2025, under the expedited summary trial procedure aimed at reducing backlogs and ensuring faster resolution of petty offences.

DMP Deputy Commissioner (Media) Talebur Rahman said on Sunday that during this period, 11,323 individuals were arrested in connection with various minor crimes across the city during 259 special drives conducted by different police units.

Among those arrested, 2,771 were sentenced to prison terms, while fines amounting to over Tk 35 lakh were imposed by the court.

The summary trials covered a wide range of offences, including drug possession, phone snatching, petty theft, eve-teasing, creating public nuisance, road obstruction, and traffic violations.

Sentences range from one day to four years

The DMP headquarters reported that the harshest sentence handed down during this period was four years of rigorous imprisonment along with a Tk 10,000 fine, and an additional 14 days in jail in case of non-payment. The lightest punishment recorded was one day of non-compulsory imprisonment.

Officials said the summary trial process—carried out under the relevant provisions of the Criminal Procedure Code—has significantly reduced the time required for case disposal and helped unclog the city’s overburdened judicial system.

“The summary trial process ensures speedy justice for minor offences and encourages lawful behaviour among citizens,” said DMP Deputy Commissioner Talebur Rahman.

Improving public safety and trust

Police officials said the initiative is part of DMP’s broader strategy to strengthen law enforcement, enhance public safety, and build citizens’ trust through quick, transparent, and effective judicial actions.

They added that summary trials have also acted as a deterrent against repeat offenders, particularly in urban areas prone to drug abuse and petty crime.

“The Dhaka Metropolitan Police remains committed to maintaining peace and order through proactive enforcement and expedited legal processes. Our goal is to make Dhaka safer and more disciplined,” Rahman said.

Part of a wider reform drive

The DMP has been conducting targeted operations across the capital to address minor crimes and quality-of-life offences, which often go unreported or take years to resolve through traditional legal channels.

Officials said the success of this approach has prompted discussions about expanding summary trials to other metropolitan areas, provided sufficient judicial oversight and resources are available.

The police further noted that alongside law enforcement, community awareness campaigns are being run to encourage responsible citizenship and reduce the occurrence of minor yet disruptive offences.