Salahuddin Ahmed calls for tackling drugs, gambling and cybercrime through reform
Published : 16 Sep 2026, 04:39 PM
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has identified gambling and drug abuse as major underlying causes of crime and called for collective efforts to curb their spread.
He made the remarks on Wednesday as the chief guest at the 43rd founding anniversary of the Crime Reporters Association of Bangladesh (CRAB), held at the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) in Segunbagicha.
"It is impossible to fully control crime solely by arresting, prosecuting, and punishing offenders after an offence is committed. We must identify and tackle the root causes," the minister said, noting that research frequently links narcotics addiction and gambling to grave offences. "Controlling the spread of gambling and drugs will naturally reduce associated crimes."
Highlighting the rapid evolution of crime, Salahuddin stressed that expanding digital and cyber threats necessitate forensic examination of electronic devices and information analysis.
He announced plans to form modern cybersecurity units and laboratories under Police Headquarters, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), and at divisional levels to boost police capacity.
Salahuddin also advocated legislative updates to match shifting crime patterns.
"Old laws are not always adequate to counter new forms of crime. Beyond existing statutes, we must enact new laws and amend existing ones according to the demands of time," he said, pointing specifically to the rise of online and cyber gambling.
He warned that weak laws allowed suspects to secure swift bail or release after arrest.
He emphasised enhancing mutual cooperation between crime reporters, law-enforcing agencies, and government bodies.
In response to requests for official recognition for investigative reporting, the minister said the ministry or police department would evaluate the feasibility of issuing certificates for high-risk reporting and investigative journalism.
