Teen gang culture in Bangladesh, locally called Kishor Gangs (Bengali: কিশোর গ্যাং),[1] encompasses the presence and activities of organized youth gangs primarily composed of teenagers involved in various criminal undertakings within urban areas of the country. The rise of these gangs presents significant challenges to law enforcement agencies and communities in Bangladesh.[2]

Background

Emergence

The emergence of teen gangs in Bangladesh can be traced back to the late 1990s, a period characterized by rapid urbanization and socio-economic changes that created an environment conducive to the formation of such groups. Experts note factors such as poverty, lack of education, unemployment, family dysfunction, and exposure to violence have contributed to the growth of this subculture among the youth. These circumstances have driven some teenagers to seek a sense of identity, belonging, and power within the structure of gangs.[3][4]

Characteristics

Teen gangs in Bangladesh exhibit distinct characteristics that define their identity and operations. These groups typically adopt a hierarchical structure, with leaders exerting control and influence over their members. Members often demonstrate their affiliation through specific clothing styles or distinctive hairstyles. The territorial nature of these gangs frequently leads to conflicts and violent clashes with rival groups as they vie for control over certain areas.[4]

Activities and criminal involvement

Teen gangs in Bangladesh are involved in a broad range of criminal activities, encompassing drug trafficking, extortion, theft, robbery, and acts of violence. Street fights with rival gangs are a common occurrence, with these altercations occasionally escalating into severe confrontations resulting in injuries and fatalities. Additionally, these gangs engage in acts of vandalism, which disrupt public order and instill fear in the communities in which they operate.[5][3][4]

Recruitment and influences

Recruitment into teen gangs in Bangladesh often takes place through social networks, schools, and disadvantaged neighborhoods. According to experts, vulnerable teenagers, facing social exclusion, neglect, or a lack of positive role models, are more susceptible to gang involvement. The allure of power, protection, and a sense of belonging within the gang contributes to their recruitment. External influences, such as media, movies, and music that glorify gang culture, also play a role in attracting young individuals to join these groups.[6][3][7]

Social impact

Research demonstrates that teen gang culture in Bangladesh has significant social, economic, and psychological impacts on society. The proliferation of these gangs has led to increased crime rates, particularly in urban areas. Innocent civilians, including bystanders, often fall victim to gang violence. The presence of teen gangs creates an atmosphere of fear and insecurity, impeding the overall development and well-being of affected communities.[3][8]

Government and Community Responses

Recognizing the threat posed by teen gangs, the government of Bangladesh has undertaken measures to address the issue. Law enforcement agencies have intensified efforts to crack down on gang-related activities and apprehend those involved in criminal acts. However, the effectiveness of these measures is often hindered by resource constraints and the complexity of the issue.[9][10][5]

Community-based initiatives have also been implemented to divert at-risk youth away from gang involvement. These initiatives encompass outreach programs, vocational training, and counseling services. Non-governmental organizations and civil society groups play a vital role in providing support and rehabilitation to individuals associated with teen gangs.[10][5]

References

  1. ↑ Al-Mamun, Abdulla- (2020-10-25). "Kishor (Youth) Gang Culture: A Threat to the Erosion of Social Values". International Journal of Progressive Sciences and Technologies. 23 (1): 224–229. doi:10.52155/ijpsat.v23.1.2231. ISSN 2509-0119.
  2. ↑ "Teen Gangs: Growing Threat to Society". Daily Sun. Retrieved 2023-06-07.
  3. 1 2 3 4 "Teen-gangs in Dhaka: How close you live to them!". The Financial Express. Retrieved 2023-06-07.
  4. 1 2 3 Atkinson-Sheppard, Sally. (2015). The gangs of Bangladesh: Exploring organized crime, street gangs and 'illicit child labourers' in Dhaka. Criminology and Criminal Justice. 16. 10.1177/1748895815616445.
  5. 1 2 3 "The menace that are teen gangs". Dhaka Tribune. 2021-07-07. Retrieved 2023-06-07.
  6. ↑ "Teen-gangs in Dhaka: How close you live to them!". United News of Bangladesh. Retrieved 2023-06-07.
  7. ↑ "যেভাবে গড়ে ওঠে দুর্ধর্ষ কিশোর অপরাধীদের দল". BBC News (in Bengali). 2019-09-17. Retrieved 2023-06-08.
  8. ↑ "Teen-gangs: A growing concern for society". The Independent. Retrieved 2023-06-07.
  9. ↑ "Juvenile gang culture". bangladeshpost.net. Retrieved 2023-06-07.
  10. 1 2 Saad, Muntakim; Rahman, FM Mizanur (2020-11-15). "Teen Gang Culture: Too dangerous to be ignored". The Daily Star. Retrieved 2023-06-07.
This article is issued from Wikipedia. The text is licensed under Creative Commons - Attribution - Sharealike. Additional terms may apply for the media files.