Robberies have reportedly increased along the Dhaka-Chattogram Highway in Cumilla, with at least six locations emerging as frequent trouble spots. The incidents have heightened concern among passengers, drivers and others who regularly use the busy route, particularly after dark.
According to local residents, organised robbery groups become more active after 10pm, targeting parts of the highway and adjoining roads where traffic is relatively sparse. Their reported methods vary. In some cases, obstacles such as tree trunks, iron rods, bricks or stones are allegedly placed on the road to force vehicles to slow down or stop. In other instances, robbers reportedly follow passenger buses, microbuses or private cars before attempting to divert them towards isolated areas.
Such incidents pose a serious security concern because passengers can lose cash and valuables while also being exposed to physical danger. The situation has reportedly made many people apprehensive about travelling long distances at night, particularly those using private vehicles or microbuses.
Local people said several areas along the highway have repeatedly experienced robbery incidents. The reported locations include Raipur, Eliotganj and Gomta in Daudkandi, Madhaiya in Chandina, as well as various parts of Sadar Dakshin. Private cars, microbuses and people returning from abroad are said to be among the main targets.
Sources familiar with the situation claimed that suspected robbers operate from different points between Daudkandi and Chauddagram. They reportedly rent houses around several roadside transport hubs, allowing them to remain close to the highway and move quickly when an opportunity arises.
The areas specifically mentioned include Eliotganj, Madhaiya, Chandina, Nimsar, Mainamati and Paduar Bazar. According to the sources, more than 50 suspected members of robbery groups are staying in rented accommodation in these areas. These claims, however, would require verification through law-enforcement investigations.
Transport operators and other people familiar with the route have called for stronger security measures. They said regular police patrols should be increased, particularly at night, while locations vulnerable to robbery should be identified and placed under closer surveillance.
Improved lighting has also been suggested for poorly illuminated sections of the highway and adjoining roads. The installation of closed-circuit television cameras at strategic points could help monitor suspicious movement and assist investigations when crimes occur. Increased checks on suspicious vehicles and individuals have also been recommended.
The Dhaka-Chattogram Highway is a major transport corridor connecting the capital with the country’s principal port city and serving large numbers of passengers and commercial vehicles. Maintaining security along the route is therefore important not only for individual travellers but also for uninterrupted movement between major economic centres.
Transport representatives believe sustained action against organised robbery groups would be more effective than occasional drives. Alongside law-enforcement operations, regular patrols, better lighting and surveillance in vulnerable areas could help reduce opportunities for criminals and improve confidence among people travelling at night.
For passengers, the reported increase in highway robberies has made late-night journeys a particular concern. Local residents and transport workers are consequently urging the authorities to identify vulnerable stretches, strengthen visible security and take prompt action against those involved in highway robberies.
