Khulna police bar solo night travel after inspector ‘attacked, robbed’

Khulna district police have instructed personnel not to travel alone at night following an attack on a police inspector who was returning from a special operation when muggers allegedly assaulted him and snatched his belongings.

Inspector Md Shah Alam was attacked in the early today (10 October). He sustained serious injuries and was initially taken to Dhaka in critical condition for treatment. His physical condition has improved somewhat, police said.

Following the incident, Khulna district police issued a written notice directing personnel involved in special operations and other duties to remain vigilant and take precautions to protect themselves.

The notice said police were conducting special drives in Rupsa, Terokhada, Dighalia and Batiaghata upazilas amid the prevailing law and order situation and several recent incidents, including attacks on law enforcement personnel.

Khulna Superintendent of Police Sarker Omar Faruk said the operations were aimed at curbing criminal activities in the four upazilas.

He said Shah Alam was returning by river towards the Police Club in Khulna city after completing an operation when the attack took place.

As the inspector was wearing plain clothes, the muggers stopped him and struck him with sharp weapons before taking his mobile phone and cash, Faruk said.

Faruk said the written instructions were issued to alert other police personnel following the incident.

Officers have been told to take precautions before conducting operations and ensure their safety while travelling, he said.

He added that the attack highlighted the need for greater caution when personnel move alone, particularly at night. Police have issued both verbal instructions and a written notice to reinforce the safety measures.