The government has announced an accelerated recruitment drive to fill 180 vacant sergeant posts in a bid to strengthen law and order nationwide and improve traffic management. The decision was confirmed on Thursday afternoon by the Ministry of Home Affairs through a statement issued by Public Relations Officer Faisal Hasan, citing remarks from Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed.
According to ministry sources, prolonged staff shortages across several units of the police force have placed considerable strain on operational capacity. The shortfall has been particularly acute within traffic divisions at metropolitan and district levels, where vacant sergeant positions have led to increased workloads for serving officers. In response, the government has resolved to expedite the recruitment process, pledging that appointments will be conducted transparently and strictly on merit, while avoiding unnecessary administrative delays.
Earlier this week, speaking at a public engagement, the Home Minister acknowledged that manpower deficits at multiple tiers of the police service were affecting overall law enforcement efficiency. He emphasised that the forthcoming recruitment would not be limited to sergeant posts alone; measures are also under way to reinforce other critical ranks, including constables.
As part of the broader initiative, urgent steps have been taken to recruit 2,701 constables. Relevant departments have reportedly secured the necessary administrative approvals and commenced preliminary procedures. The selection process is expected to comprise written examinations, physical fitness assessments, and oral interviews to ensure that candidates meet professional and ethical standards.
Overview of Planned Recruitment
| Position | Number of Vacancies | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| Sergeant | 180 | Recruitment process to begin promptly |
| Constable | 2,701 | Emergency recruitment under way |
Security analysts note that the demand for enhanced policing capacity has grown alongside rising urbanisation, expanding road networks, and a steady increase in the number of vehicles. In densely populated cities, traffic congestion and road safety concerns have intensified, underscoring the need for skilled and adequately trained traffic officers. Observers suggest that appointing competent sergeants—who play a supervisory and operational role—could significantly improve traffic discipline and contribute to reducing road accidents.
Senior officials at Police Headquarters have indicated that newly appointed officers will undergo modernised training programmes. These are expected to include digital traffic monitoring systems, contemporary enforcement techniques, and public awareness strategies designed to foster greater compliance with traffic regulations.
Mr Ahmed reiterated that safeguarding public security remains a top governmental priority. By gradually enhancing the strength and professionalism of the police force, the authorities aim to improve service delivery at the grassroots level. Once the recruitment drive is completed, officials anticipate a measurable improvement in operational responsiveness and public confidence in law enforcement services across the country.