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CRIME detection and law enforcement have undergone significant evolution with the advancement of technology. In many developed countries, artificial intelligence has revolutionised policing by improving crime prevention, investigation and response mechanisms. AI-based tools such as predictive analytics, facial recognition, automated surveillance and natural language processing have enhanced the efficiency of law enforcement agencies.

For Bangladesh police, where crime rates fluctuate due to social, economic and political factors, the integration of AI could offer faster, more accurate and data-driven crime detection. It is imperative to explore how AI can be utilised in crime detection in Bangladesh, the potential benefits, the challenges and a future road map for AI-driven law enforcement.

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Predictive policing

AI-POWERED predictive policing and crime mapping tools can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the Bangladesh police by analysing vast amounts of historical crime data to forecast where and when crimes are likely to occur. By generating heat maps and identifying emerging crime trends, AI can support strategic deployment of police resources in high-risk urban areas such as Dhaka, Chattogram, Gazipur and Narayanganj. Machine learning algorithms, for instance, can detect patterns in burglary, theft and drug trafficking based on past incidents, enabling law enforcement to act preemptively. Although Bangladesh has not yet formally adopted advanced systems like PredPol — used by Los Angeles to identify crime-prone areas — pilot initiatives, such as the Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s Crime Data Management System, provide a promising foundation for integrating AI-driven approaches into policing.

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Facial recognition, biometric identification

AI-POWERED facial recognition and biometric identification technologies offer significant potential to enhance policing in Bangladesh by enabling the identification of suspects through CCTV footage, national ID databases and even social media images. These tools can assist in tracking fugitives and missing persons, preventing identity fraud and strengthening airport and border security — particularly in sensitive areas like Teknaf, Benapole and Tamabil, where human trafficking and illegal migration are persistent threats. By matching images captured from surveillance systems or mobile devices with official databases, law enforcement agencies can respond more swiftly and accurately. However, the implementation of such technologies must be approached with caution, as the risk of misuse, wrongful arrests and inadequate oversight could erode public trust and raise serious concerns about privacy and accountability.

Recently, the Police Bureau of Investigation has revealed that the recent fire at the BIAM Foundation building in Dhaka was a deliberate act of arson intended to destroy sensitive documents of the BCS (Administration) Welfare Multipurpose Cooperative Society. Initially believed to be caused by a faulty air conditioner, the case took a dramatic turn when PBI, using AI-driven video analysis, identified Ashraful Islam disabling the CCTV cameras before the fire and later arrested him in Kurigram. His confession led to the arrest of Md Zahidul Islam, an administrative officer at BIAM, who allegedly masterminded the plot with Ashraful, office assistant Abdul Malek, and driver Md Faruk, with the group promised Tk 10–12 lakh to destroy the documents. Tragically, an explosion during the act killed Malek instantly and fatally injured Faruk. This case marks a significant breakthrough in Bangladesh’s law enforcement, demonstrating the transformative role of AI in uncovering complex crimes and shifting the investigation’s focus to uncovering the nature of the destroyed documents and identifying any additional conspirators.

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Automated surveillance, anomaly detection

AUTOMATED surveillance and AI-powered anomaly detection systems are increasingly being integrated into traffic cameras, ATM surveillance networks, and broader security infrastructures to identify suspicious activities without human intervention. These advanced video analytics tools can detect abnormal behaviour in public spaces, such as unauthorised gatherings, potential riots or terrorist threats. Drones equipped with AI-powered cameras are also being deployed for crowd monitoring and emergency response, providing real-time situational awareness. In major transit points like Kamalapur Railway Station, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, and critical traffic intersections, AI-driven surveillance can recognise anomalies such as sudden crowd surges, unusual movements or unattended objects, enabling quicker and more targeted security responses. In the 2026 national election, the use of drones could offer potential advantages for monitoring unlawful gatherings and group violence.

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Cybercrime investigation

WITH the rise of digital threats, AI is becoming an essential tool in cybercrime investigation by enabling law enforcement to detect patterns of fraud, hacking and online harassment more efficiently. AI systems can analyse activities on social media and the dark web to uncover cyber-criminal networks, identify and prevent financial fraud, digital identity theft, and phishing scams, and assist forensic teams in decrypting compromised systems or examining digital evidence. However, as AI empowers police efforts, it simultaneously offers new tools for criminals. In Bangladesh, emerging AI-enabled crimes pose significant challenges: deepfake technology can produce fabricated videos or audio impersonating politicians, police officers or business leaders, potentially causing unrest, especially during sensitive periods like elections. Similarly, AI-driven phishing and social engineering — particularly in Bangla — are being used to manipulate individuals into disclosing confidential information. Moreover, AI is increasingly being used in orchestrating automated financial fraud, including investment scams and illicit activities in mobile banking and cryptocurrency, reflecting a growing concern for Bangladesh’s digital security landscape.

In recent years, social media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, TikTok and other digital outlets have increasingly become arenas where individuals — often under the guise of free expression or anonymous profiles — launch malicious attacks against dignitaries, political figures, public servants and government officials. These attacks frequently take the form of videos, livestreams, and posts that employ vulgar, obscene and highly offensive language. The content often crosses the boundary of criticism into personal vilification, character assassination and misinformation. More disturbingly, there is a growing trend of digital blackmail, where private information, photos or fabricated content is used as leverage to extort money, favours, or silence from victims. Such actions not only harm the individuals targeted but also undermine the dignity of public institutions and the rule of law.

The lack of digital literacy, weak enforcement of cyber laws and the absence of a clear framework for accountability on online platforms have further contributed to this toxic environment. If left unchecked, this trend poses a serious threat to public trust, social harmony and the integrity of governance. The growing menace of online abuse, defamation and blackmail targeting dignitaries and public officials in Bangladesh can be addressed through a balanced and multi-dimensional strategy focusing on the resourcing of cybercrime investigation units, which is essential to identify and prosecute offenders without infringing on freedom of expression.

Recently, a fake video statement was circulated on social media platforms using a still photograph of the inspector general of police of Bangladesh combined with an artificially generated voice. In this video, advanced AI technology was used to clone the IGP’s voice and deliver a fabricated and misleading message, giving the false impression that it was an official communication. This deliberate misuse of AI constitutes a serious cyber offence under the existing laws of Bangladesh, including those related to digital fraud, identity misuse and incitement. Such malicious activities not only aim to mislead the public but also create unnecessary sensation, confusion and distrust. They can incite public resentment and potentially threaten national security and public order.Ìý

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Potential benefits of AI

INTEGRATING artificial intelligence into crime detection and law enforcement holds significant promise for the Bangladesh police, offering a transformative approach to improving investigative accuracy, operational efficiency, public safety and citizen engagement.

One of the most immediate advantages of AI is its ability to speed up investigations while enhancing accuracy. Traditionally time-consuming processes such as analysing forensic evidence, reviewing CCTV footage or identifying suspects can now be completed rapidly through AI-powered tools. These systems can sift through massive datasets, detect patterns and establish links between incidents, thereby accelerating case resolution and improving the quality of investigations.

AI also enhances the overall efficiency of law enforcement operations. By analysing real-time data, AI can optimise patrol routes, traffic flows and emergency response coordination. This data-driven approach ensures that resources are deployed where they are most needed, reducing waste and lowering operational costs while maximising impact on the ground.

In the realm of counterterrorism, AI proves indispensable by enhancing intelligence gathering and threat analysis. It can monitor social media for signs of radicalisation, track suspicious financial transactions, and analyse call records to uncover extremist networks. This strengthens the capacity of the Bangladesh police to detect and disrupt terrorist plots before they materialise.

Lastly, AI can play a constructive role in fostering better police-community relations. Tools such as AI-powered chatbots and intelligent complaint management systems offer citizens a more efficient and transparent way to communicate with law enforcement. By handling non-emergency queries, providing status updates and reducing wait times at police stations, these systems can build public trust and promote greater accountability within the police force.

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Challenges and limitations

WHILE the integration of artificial intelligence into crime detection holds great potential for the Bangladesh police, its implementation is not without significant challenges and limitations.

One of the foremost challenges is the high cost of implementing AI systems. Establishing a robust AI-driven infrastructure requires not only cutting-edge technology and secure digital platforms but also a team of skilled professionals to operate and maintain these systems. The government must be prepared to invest substantial resources in developing AI-powered crime databases, smart surveillance networks and comprehensive training programmes for police officers to handle AI-based investigations efficiently.

Ethical and legal concerns also present a major obstacle to the widespread adoption of AI in policing. The deployment of surveillance tools and automated data analysis raises important questions related to individual privacy, data protection and civil liberties. In the absence of well-defined legal frameworks, there is a risk of unauthorised data collection and misuse of personal information. Additionally, AI algorithms used in predictive policing may inadvertently reinforce racial, ethnic or socioeconomic biases, leading to discrimination and mistrust within communities.

A further limitation is the current lack of AI expertise within law enforcement agencies. The Bangladesh police face a shortage of officers trained in AI, data science and cyber security.

Moreover, cyber security threats and concerns about data integrity cannot be overlooked. AI systems depend heavily on the secure collection, storage and processing of vast amounts of data. If police databases are compromised through hacking or data manipulation, it could not only derail sensitive investigations but also pose a serious threat to national security. Ensuring robust cyber security protocols and digital safeguards will be vital to protect AI-enabled systems from malicious interference.

To effectively harness artificial intelligence in crime detection and law enforcement, the police must adopt a structured, phased roadmap grounded in innovation, ethics and sustainability. This process should begin with a comprehensive, needs-based assessment tailored to Bangladesh’s crime patterns. Strategic priorities include launching pilot projects in high-crime and urban areas such as old Dhaka, Keraniganj and Chattogram. These pilots will help test predictive analytics, facial recognition and surveillance systems in real-world settings and generate evidence-based insights for scaling.

Simultaneously, AI-specific training should be embedded into existing police education frameworks.

Developing a robust AI infrastructure is foundational. Establishing AI-powered Crime Analysis Centres in major cities like Dhaka, Chattogram, and Sylhet will enable real-time crime monitoring, faster data-driven investigations and enhanced operational decision-making. These centres should be closely integrated with the National Crime Database for seamless data sharing and analytics.

Collaborations with domestic universities, international research institutions and tech firms will be key for technology transfer and capacity development. To ensure responsible and rights-based AI deployment, the government must institute strong regulatory frameworks and enforceable data protection laws. This includes the development of ethical guidelines, standard operating procedures, and human rights impact assessments specific to AI in policing.

Building public trust is central to the success of AI in policing. Civic participation — through engagement with civil society, legal experts, technologists and community leaders — is vital for developing a socially inclusive and accountable AI policy framework. Transparent communication, digital literacy campaigns, and community outreach will help clarify AI’s role, dispel fears and promote informed public dialogue.

Moreover, all AI deployments must be evaluated for algorithmic bias, disproportionate impact and community acceptance. Regular monitoring and evaluation should be institutionalised to ensure continual improvement.

Artificial intelligence holds the transformative potential to revolutionise crime detection and policing in Bangladesh by enhancing investigative capabilities, preventing crime and strengthening public safety. With strategic investments in technology, capacity-building, and legal safeguards, AI can support the development of a smarter, more efficient and proactive law enforcement system. However, the integration of AI must be approached with caution — guided by ethical principles, robust regulation and a strong commitment to protecting individual privacy and rights. AI is not inherently good or bad; it is a powerful tool whose impact depends entirely on how, where and for whom it is used. In the vision of a progressive, inclusive society, it must be harnessed as an instrument of empowerment, innovation and equity — ensuring that technological progress translates into real safety and justice for all citizens.

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Md Motiar Rahman is a retired deputy inspector general of police.