Suppressed cases behind sharp rise in murder tally, finds CA’s Press Wing
Although the number of reported murder cases has risen sharply during the 13 months of the interim government, this increase is largely attributed to the formal registration of previously suppressed cases, according to the press wing of the Chief Adviser.
The apparent spike in crime statistics reflects a surge in long-withheld complaints now being filed, rather than a genuine rise in violent crime.
A comparative analysis of crime data from 2020 to August 2025, released by the Chief Adviser’s press wing, reveals significant shifts in reporting trends since the interim government took office following the August 2024 political transition.
The report indicates that at least 1,130 murder cases committed during the 16-year tenure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina were only officially recorded after the change in administration.
Many of these cases had been deliberately blocked or discouraged at police stations, particularly when the accused were linked to the former ruling party or held political influence.
Victims and their families, previously deterred by fear of retaliation or police complicity, are now coming forward to seek justice.
“The rise in reported crimes in 2025 is not an indication of deteriorating law and order, but rather a reflection of broader access to justice,” the press wing stated. “For years, people were denied the right to file complaints. Today, police stations are operating with greater neutrality and accessibility, and victims can lodge cases without fear of political intimidation.”
The report highlights a marked improvement in institutional independence, with law enforcement officials no longer obstructing complaints under political pressure. This shift has led to a wave of delayed justice, particularly in homicide cases that had been shelved or misclassified.
Despite the increase in murder filings, other crime categories show a downward trend, suggesting improvements in public safety and policing. According to the latest data:
Robbery cases declined slightly to 1,314 in 2025, down from 1,405 in 2024, though still above pre-2023 levels.
Offences under the Law and Order Disruption (Speedy Trial) Act dropped sharply from 1,226 in 2024 to 651 in 2025, indicating reduced politically motivated prosecutions.
Rioting incidents fell from 125 in 2024 to 59 in 2025.
Theft cases saw a significant decrease, falling from 8,652 in 2024 to 6,354 in 2025.
These reductions point to both improved law enforcement and a more transparent reporting environment, the press wing noted. With political interference in policing now curtailed, officers are reportedly focusing on genuine crime prevention rather than enforcing partisan agendas.
The interim government has emphasized institutional reform and accountability, with ongoing efforts to depoliticise law enforcement agencies and restore public trust. The current data, officials say, underscores the success of these measures in enabling citizens to access justice without fear.
“The truth is emerging from the shadows,” the press wing added. “What we are seeing is not a breakdown of order, but a long-overdue reckoning with past injustices.”
The government has pledged to ensure all newly filed cases are investigated impartially and prosecuted under due process, as part of its broader commitment to restoring the rule of law.