Md Mohibbulah Hawlader, Pirojpur District Correspondent

Under the direction of Pirojpur-2 lawmaker and State Minister for Housing and Public Works, Ahmed Sohel Manjur MP, strict legal action is being planned against eve-teasing, drug abuse, juvenile gangs and online gambling around various educational institutions in Bhandaria upazila.

The information was disclosed in a message signed by Md Zahidul Islam, president of the Bhandaria Upazila Community Policing Committee, and its general secretary, Md Shamim Hawlader. They urged students, youths and residents of the upazila to remain vigilant.

According to the message, groups of youths and drug users have been frequently seen loitering around schools, colleges and madrasas in different areas throughout the day. They have been accused of harassing students, making unwanted proposals, issuing threats, forming juvenile gangs and creating social disorder. The growing trend of online gambling through mobile phones has also raised serious social concerns.

The Community Policing Committee said police and legal drives against such social crimes would begin soon. Legal action will be taken against anyone found loitering without a specific purpose around educational institutions during school hours. Action will also be taken if evidence of eve-teasing or any other social offence is found.

The authorities also announced a zero-tolerance policy against the sale, purchase and consumption of drugs. Those involved in drug-related activities will be brought under the law and face appropriate punishment, the message said. Strict legal action will also be taken if anyone is found to be involved in online gambling through a mobile phone.

Students, youths and members of the public were urged to refrain from criminal activities and lead healthy, peaceful and normal lives by correcting their behaviour. Everyone was also called upon to cooperate in building a safe, orderly and healthy society.