ACC Director-General Mugged in Dhaka

A senior official of Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) was seriously injured after being attacked by muggers in the Mohammadpur area of the capital, Dhaka, highlighting renewed concerns about street crime in the city.

Mohammad Motahar Hossain, Director-General (Inquiry and Investigation-2) of the Anti-Corruption Commission, fell victim to the assault late on Saturday night, 7 March, while taking a walk near the rear side of Residential Model College in Mohammadpur. According to police and local sources, a group of assailants intercepted him and forcibly robbed him of valuables, including his mobile phone and wallet.

Witnesses and officials familiar with the incident said the attack occurred in a relatively quiet section of the neighbourhood, an area that sees fewer pedestrians during late evening hours. Motahar Hossain had reportedly gone out for a routine walk close to his residence when the attackers surrounded him.

The muggers initially demanded his belongings and seized his iPhone along with a wallet containing personal items. However, when they attempted to unlock the phone, they reportedly demanded the device’s password. According to preliminary accounts, the officer hesitated or took time to provide the code, which angered the assailants.

In response, the attackers allegedly assaulted him with a sharp weapon and physically beat him before fleeing the scene with the stolen items. During the attack he sustained serious injuries to his neck and around one eye.

Local residents later helped rescue him and arranged for his immediate transfer to the Government Employees Hospital in Dhaka. Hospital sources said he is currently undergoing treatment and remains under medical observation. Although his injuries are described as serious, doctors believe he is now out of immediate danger.

Police from Mohammadpur Police Station have confirmed that a case has been filed in connection with the incident. Sub-Inspector Selim Reza told Asia Post that officers are investigating the attack and working to identify the perpetrators.

“We have received the complaint and opened a case regarding the mugging,” Selim Reza said. “Investigative procedures are under way, and necessary legal action will be taken once those involved are identified.”

Law-enforcement authorities have begun examining nearby closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage and interviewing potential witnesses to trace the suspects. Patrol activity in the area has also reportedly been increased following the incident.

The attack on such a high-ranking public official has sparked discussion about urban safety in Dhaka, particularly in neighbourhoods where residents frequently walk for exercise during evening hours. Security analysts note that incidents of street robbery tend to occur in poorly lit or less crowded areas, especially at night.

Below is a summary of key details relating to the incident:

Urban safety specialists say that improved lighting, increased police patrols and expanded surveillance coverage could significantly reduce opportunistic street crimes in densely populated parts of the capital. They also advise residents to remain cautious when walking alone at night and to choose well-lit routes whenever possible.