Editorial
Errant Rab men
A concern that must be addressed squarely
THE standing of Rab, a special anti-crime crack force, must have been jolted, or lowered in the public eye, following the arrest of two Rab men reportedly involved in mugging and looting. The report is a really shocker, given the slide in law and order which leaves citizens in a state of quandary already.
Introduction of Rab was based on the idea of developing a crack force to deal with the ever-deteriorating law and order which posed a grave threat to people's security. But such reports of Rab personnel being themselves engaged in criminal activities seem to justify the criticism that grant of sweeping powers can neither bode well for any law enforcing agency, far less the public.
There has been a surge in criminal activities across the country with professional goons and extortionists taking charge of the situation. Here, Rab is expected to get down to business with renewed vigour and determination. It is not only a question of maintaining law and order, it is also a matter of keeping social peace and order intact as it shows signs of falling part.
It seems there is little or no oversight of the Rab activities. Now, the question of regulating and controlling Rab activities has assumed importance. There is no denying that criminal activities are hard to control with routine measures, particularly when the police have so many limitations, but the cure must not be worse than the malady. Rab has to prove its worth through its performance not smeared by allegations as repugnant as mugging and looting.
The Rab high-ups have to take note of the latest developments not forgetting that similar charges were brought against their men in the past also. So, alongside punishing the culprits they must also find out why and how some Rab men are committing culpable crimes. A thorough inquest into all such incidents will surely help them guide the force in the right direction.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments