Bangladesh’s highways have recently become hotspots for criminal activities, especially during nighttime. Highway robbers are adopting new and sophisticated methods to ambush vehicles, steal valuable goods, and even endanger passengers’ lives. This raises an important question—how do these robbers identify vehicles carrying expensive cargo, and what tactics do they use to execute their crimes?
In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the strategies employed by highway robbers and provide essential safety tips to help you stay vigilant and secure during your travels.
How Do Robbers Choose Their Targets?
Robbers don’t strike randomly. They use several indicators to identify potential targets:
1️⃣ Type and Condition of the Vehicle
Robbers often target specific types of vehicles, including:
- Trucks and Covered Vans: These usually carry commercial goods, making them prime targets.
- Private Cars and Luxury Vehicles: New models or high-end cars attract attention as they are more likely to carry valuables.
2️⃣ Stickers and Logos on the Vehicle
Company logos, government agency stickers, or special organization emblems can hint at valuable cargo inside. Even diplomatic or corporate markings can inadvertently make a vehicle more noticeable to criminals.
3️⃣ Common Transport Routes
Robbers focus on major highways with heavy traffic of valuable goods, such as:
- Dhaka–Chattogram Highway
- Dhaka–Sylhet Highway
- Dhaka–Khulna Highway
- Highways Leading to Northern Bangladesh
These routes are particularly vulnerable during late-night hours when fewer vehicles are on the road, providing the perfect conditions for robberies.
4️⃣ Vehicle Speed and Driver Behavior
Vehicles moving unusually slow, frequently stopping, or driving erratically may signal to robbers that the driver is cautious due to carrying expensive items. This behavior can unintentionally attract attention.
5️⃣ Surveillance Near Toll Plazas and Rest Stops
Some criminal groups monitor vehicles at:
- Toll Plazas
- Highway Restaurants
- Rest Stops
Here, they can observe vehicle occupants, cargo details, and even overhear conversations revealing travel plans and destinations.
Common Highway Robbery Tactics in Bangladesh
Robbers employ deceptive and aggressive methods to ambush their targets. Here are some of the most common tactics:
✅ Staged Accidents
Robbers create fake accidents—either by pretending someone is injured on the road or leaving a damaged vehicle strategically placed—to force other vehicles to stop. Once the vehicle halts, the robbers strike.
✅ Obstruction with Logs or Large Rocks
They may block the road with heavy objects like logs or stones, leaving drivers no choice but to stop. This is when the attackers ambush, often with weapons.
✅ Posing as Fake Police or Security Forces
Some criminals dress as police officers or members of law enforcement, setting up fake checkpoints to stop vehicles under the guise of security checks. This method is particularly dangerous because it exploits the driver’s trust in authority figures.
✅ Rear-End Collision Trick
Robbers intentionally ram the back of a vehicle using a motorcycle or another car. When the driver steps out to inspect the damage, they are ambushed, and valuables are stolen at gunpoint.
✅ Smash-and-Grab Attacks
For quick robberies, criminals break vehicle windows, especially in private cars or trucks, to snatch bags, money, or electronic devices before fleeing the scene rapidly.
How to Stay Safe on Bangladesh Highways
While the situation can be alarming, following these safety measures can significantly reduce the risks:
✔️ Avoid Traveling Alone at Night
Try to travel in groups or convoy with other vehicles whenever possible. Criminals are less likely to target multiple vehicles together.
✔️ Stay Close to Police or Highway Patrol Vehicles
If you notice highway patrols, try to maintain proximity without appearing suspicious. Their presence can deter potential attackers.
✔️ Don’t Fall for Distraction Tactics
Be cautious of strangers signaling you to stop, even if they claim there’s an emergency. If you suspect foul play, continue driving to the nearest police station or a crowded area.
✔️ Always Keep Your Doors and Windows Locked
Even during brief stops at traffic signals, toll booths, or rest areas, make sure your doors are locked, and windows are up.
✔️ Call 999 for Emergencies
If you sense danger, don’t hesitate to call Bangladesh’s emergency helpline 999 for immediate assistance. Provide your exact location and a description of the situation.
✔️ Prefer Stopping at Secure, Well-Lit Areas
If you need to rest or refuel, choose established rest stops, fuel stations, or toll plazas where there’s security presence and other travelers around.
Final Thoughts
Highway travel in Bangladesh can be both essential and risky. However, being informed and prepared makes a world of difference. By understanding the tactics used by criminals and taking proactive safety measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to highway robberies.
Stay alert, stay safe, and share this post to raise awareness among your friends and family. Together, we can make our highways safer for everyone.
