Prime Minister (PM) Tarique Rahman has urged police officers to rebuild public confidence, saying stronger trust between citizens and law enforcement will make tackling crime far more effective.

Addressing the Welfare Parade at the Rajarbagh Police Auditorium on Sunday to mark Police Week 2026, Tarique said the police must operate under the law and remain free from partisan influence.

“The police administration does not belong to any party,” he said. “It must be run according to statutory law, and it is your responsibility to ensure that no innocent person is harassed.”

The prime minister, who also chairs the ruling BNP, told officers that their success depends on becoming a symbol of safety and reliability for the public. If people view police stations as a place of refuge in times of crisis, he said, it would reflect both institutional and governmental success.

Reminding officers that citizens are the ultimate owners of the state, Tarique said people seeking help at police stations should feel respected and protected. “Ordinary people first come to the police station for legal assistance,” he said, stressing that humane conduct alongside legal action can shape public perception positively.

He described police personnel as the government’s representatives at the grassroots level, capable of stabilising tense situations through professionalism and swift decision making. Beyond enforcing the law, they serve as the first gateway to justice and public security, he added.

Tarique acknowledged that the current administration inherited a weakened governance structure, a fragile economy and deteriorating law and order conditions. He accused the previous government of politicising the police and setting them against the public for partisan interests.

“That dark period is over,” he said. “Now the biggest challenge before the police is to regain and maintain public trust.”

The prime minister said the government is prioritising improvements in law and order and pledged to modernise the force through technology driven reforms. Plans include expanding cyber policing capabilities, integrating artificial intelligence and big data analysis, and enhancing training to address emerging threats in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

He reiterated a zero tolerance stance on drugs, terrorism and corruption, highlighting concerns over organised crime, juvenile gangs, financial fraud, violence against women and children, and online gambling. Tarique called for tougher action against drug suppliers and trafficking networks through strict enforcement.

At the same time, he emphasised that enforced disappearances, abductions and extrajudicial actions are unacceptable. “Protecting the rights of every citizen is the moral and constitutional duty of every police official,” he said, underscoring the government’s commitment to rule of law and human rights.

Tarique also signaled improvements in welfare for police personnel, including better housing, medical facilities, increased allowances and modern training opportunities. Recruitment, promotion and transfers, he said, should prioritise merit, integrity and professionalism.

While acknowledging that not all expectations can be met immediately, particularly given global tensions and economic pressures, the prime minister said the government would gradually fulfill its commitments.

“Our path is not easy, but our goal is noble,” he said. “We want to build a prosperous, self reliant, democratic and safe Bangladesh.”

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, Inspector General of Police Md Ali Hossain Fakir and senior officials attended the event, along with police members and their families in person and online.