Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) Commissioner Hasib Aziz has instructed police officers to open fire with submachine guns (SMGs) at armed criminals on sight to strengthen security across the port city.

The directive was given verbally through a wireless message to patrol and police station units on Tuesday (11 November). Between 12:30pm and 1:00pm, the commissioner issued the order several times in separate instructions.

According to the message, patrol teams have also been directed to carry shotguns, two gas guns, and 9mm pistols for team in-charges. The number of permanent check-posts has been increased from seven to 13.

Confirming the order mentioned in the wireless message, several CMP officials said the commissioner instructed that there will be no use of shotguns or China rifles and patrols will now operate in SMG brushfire mode.

Reminding police officers of their right to self-defence under the penal code, Aziz reportedly said he would take full responsibility for the order.

Speaking to journalists, the CMP commissioner said, "I have instructed the police to use SMGs for brushfire against armed criminals. They have been given clear orders to shoot on sight."

"An individual was recently killed in broad daylight when armed men opened fire during a public campaign. This is a serious concern for us, as it has created insecurity among the public," he added.

He said the directive was issued to ensure public safety. 

"From today [Tuesday], shotguns and China rifles are being withdrawn from patrol units. Instead, they will carry Chinese automotive submachine guns and will open fire immediately upon encountering armed men. The number of check-posts has also been increased," he said.

On 5 November, listed criminal Sarowar Hossain Babla was shot dead during a campaign event of BNP candidate Ershad Ullah in Khondkarabad area under Bayezid Bostami Police Station in the Chattogram-8 constituency. 

The BNP candidate himself was also injured in the attack. The incident has sparked questions about the police's ability to curb rising crime in the city.

Earlier, on 12 August, Hasib Aziz had issued a similar wireless order instructing police to open fire in self-defence if anyone brandished a weapon during patrols or raids in Chattogram. 

That directive also drew public attention after Sub-Inspector Abu Sayeed Rana was injured in an attack allegedly by Awami League activists in the city's Bandar area the day before.

 

Chattagram Metropolitan Police (CMP) / submachine guns (SMGs)