Published: 12:04 AM, 09 May 2026
SMP Commissioner Abdul Kuddus Chowdhury wins BPM Award
In recognition of outstanding professional service, Sylhet Metropolitan Police (SMP) Commissioner Abdul Kuddus Chowdhury, PPM has won the prestigious state award, 'Bangladesh Police Medal (BPM)-Service', for the year 2026.
Abdul Kuddus Chowdhury is set to receive the award during the four-day Police Week 2026, due to be held from 10 May at the Rajarbagh Police Lines in the capital. A total of 107 members of the police force have been selected this year for BPM and PPM for their courage in service, anti-crime operations, skills in solving lawsuits, efficiency, honesty and discipline. Since taking the helm of Sylhet Metropolitan Police (SMP) following the post-August 5, 2024 situation, Commissioner Abdul Kuddus Chowdhury, PPM has brought a revolutionary change in Sylhet city with utmost professionalism and relentless dedication.
His goal is to build a safe, modern, smart, and crime-free 'Tilottama' city. Under his visionary leadership and the successful implementation of a technology-driven 'Smart Policing' model, the city's law and order situation has witnessed a remarkable improvement. Commissioner Abdul Kuddus recently discussed his activities and future plans stating that he has gradually reshaped the force into a modern and people-friendly organization.
Notably, his leadership has led to the identification and arrest of several criminals involved in high-profile killing missions. Furthermore, he has eliminated the "posting trade" (bribery for transfers) within SMP; postings are now conducted through a transparent public lottery system. His office remains open to all visitors, allowing citizens to seek legal assistance without any barriers.
"Upon joining, I formulated a crime suppression roadmap based on the opinions of citizens, representatives, businessmen, and journalists," the Commissioner stated. "A criminal has no identity other than being a 'criminal.' In just 15 days of April 2026, we arrested 838 individuals, including 54 identified muggers. We have instructed all stations to display photos of known muggers." He also noted that 161 drug dealers and smugglers were apprehended in two 32-hour special operations in March and April. Addressing challenges on social media, he said, "Preventing rumors and misinformation is a major challenge. We have restructured the SMP Cyber Team with modern technology. Numerous fake IDs have been identified and defamatory content removed." To tackle traffic congestion and illegal occupation of footpaths, the Commissioner has initiated continuous drives.
Acknowledging limitations, Commissioner Abdul Kuddus Chowdhury said, "We still face a shortage of logistics, housing, and vehicles. We have informed the higher authorities and hope these will be resolved soon. As long as I am in Sylhet, I will continue to work to make it the safest city in Bangladesh."
>>Abdul Halim Shagor, AA
