Jewelry Shop Theft and Robbery Surge Sparks Concern; Traders Demand Return of Licensed Weapons

Staff Reporter

The Bangladesh Jewellers’ Association (BAJUS) has expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of theft, robbery, and direct attacks on jewelry shops and traders across the country.

In recent incidents, armed criminals have targeted jewelry businesses, leading to the deaths and attempted murders of jewelers. Worried traders are now demanding improved security and the immediate return of their licensed firearms for self-defense.

In a press release issued on March 12, BAJUS leaders emphasized the alarming increase in theft and robbery incidents, citing media reports and statistics. They noted that jewelry shops have become prime targets for criminal gangs. Over the past eight months, 17 jewelry stores nationwide, including in Dhaka, have suffered thefts or robberies, causing losses estimated at nearly BDT 400 million.

In the first three months of this year alone, 11 incidents of theft and robbery were reported. Notable cases include:
– January 3: 159 tolas of gold stolen from Crown Diamond & Jewellers in Dhanmondi.
– January 9: 250 tolas of gold stolen from Nurani Jewellers in Sylhet and an attempted robbery at Pragati Jewellers in Faridpur.
– January 12: 60 tolas of gold and BDT 200,000 in cash taken from Oishi Jewellers in Patuakhali’s Kalapara.
– January 24: 70 tolas of gold stolen from Iti Jewellers in Dhaka’s Hazaribagh.

In February, robbers took 25 tolas of gold from Cumilla’s Chauddagram on the 9th, and 14 tolas of gold along with BDT 325,000 from Pushpita Jewellers in Faridpur on the 20th.

Other high-profile incidents include:
– February 23: Armed robbers shot and robbed a jeweler of 200 tolas of gold and BDT 200,000 outside his home in Dhaka’s Banasree.
– February 28: A 14-15-member gang attempted a robbery at Luna Jewellers in Shah Ali Plaza Market, Mirpur-10, during Friday prayers.

The situation worsened in March when a jeweler in Ashulia was killed, and gold worth 15-20 tolas was stolen on March 9. Other robberies have occurred in Jhalkathi, Mirpur, and other areas.

BAJUS Acting President Gulzar Ahmed stated that the repeated targeting of jewelry businesses has left traders in fear. He urged authorities, including the Home Advisor, to take swift action to improve security.

General Secretary Badal Chandra Roy highlighted the need for immediate measures to ensure the safety of jewelers and their businesses. He called for the return of licensed firearms confiscated during a nationwide crackdown on August 5, when over 460 police stations were attacked, and weapons were looted.

Jewelers remain anxious as the lack of adequate security poses a serious threat to their livelihood.