Dismantle the teen gangs in Cumilla

We are deeply concerned by the activities of teen gangs in Cumilla as they are becoming increasingly involved in violence, extortion, drug peddling, and other crimes. The recent killing of 13-year-old Ishiat Shahriar Oprotim has brought the dangers posed by these groups into focus and shows how vulnerable young people can be to them. The fact that the names of such gangs are now being openly written on walls in busy public places shows they are no longer hiding their activities, rather openly trying to establish their identities and influence.

An investigation by this daily found that at least 20 such gangs are active in Cumilla, with members of these groups implicated in at least 25 major criminal incidents during the first nine months of this year. Gang members have also been named in at least 12 murder cases between 2017 and 2025. Although they are called “teen gangs”, not all their members are teenagers; adults are also involved. Groups such as CBK, DBX and KGS reportedly use names, symbols, TikTok videos, online groups and motorcycle displays to establish their identities and attract young people. For adolescents seeking recognition, belonging or status, these groups offer a substitute for family, school and community institutions. There have also been allegations that some gangs operate with the support or influence of local political figures, making the problem even harder to tackle.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

While Cumilla police have recently conducted a district-wide operation, detaining hundreds of suspects, our experience shows that periodic crackdowns alone cannot dismantle these gangs. According to a Prothom Alo report, more than 250 suspected gang members have been arrested since the current superintendent of police of Cumilla took charge last November, while at least 20 gang leaders were arrested this year. However, some were released and later became involved in similar offences. As new groups continue to emerge, the authorities must now find out how these gangs are formed, funded and controlled.

We urge the government to take necessary action against these gangs and hold political leaders or other influential individuals accountable if they are found to be organising or supporting them. However, the responsibility does not lie with law enforcement alone. Parents need to know where their children go, whom they spend time with, and what they do online, while schools should identify and support students who may be getting involved in violence or with criminal groups. Communities should also provide safe spaces for young people to play, socialise and take part in healthy activities. At the same time, efforts are needed to address drug abuse, school dropouts and other social problems that can push young people towards gangs. Unless authorities, families, schools and communities work together, today's teen gangs could develop into much more serious criminal networks in the future.