The Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS) on Friday called for heightened security measures during the extended Eid holidays to protect jewellery businesses from increasing thefts and robberies.

At a press conference held at its New Eskaton Road office, BAJUS Vice President Riponul Hasan said there are a total of 40,000 jewellery establishments in the country.

However, the recent surge in thefts and robberies targeting these businesses has created a serious sense of insecurity among jewellers.

Ripon revealed that between January and 26 March, a total of 23 jewellery shops across the country have been robbed of or burgled, with Dhaka witnessing the highest number of incidents at 11.

Other affected districts include Munshiganj, Sylhet, Cumilla, Khulna, and Habiganj.

Given the current situation, jewellers fear that the risks may increase during the Eid holidays.

Speaking at the press conference, victimised businessman M A Hannan Azad, proprietor of the jewellery shop Alankar, shared his terrifying experience.

He said, "At around 5 am on 26 March, a group of 25-30 men attacked my house. They specifically targeted me. The way they broke through the gate and entered within just five to ten minutes suggests they were well-trained robbers. They even attempted to abduct me. After such an incident, it is only natural that we feel unsafe."

BAJUS Acting President Gulzar Ahmed urged jewellers to take personal and institutional measures alongside government-provided security.

He recommended installing CCTV cameras, increasing the number of security guards, and collaborating with market owners’ associations to determine how best to ensure enhanced security for jewellery establishments during the Eid holidays.

BAJUS further demanded armed security personnel to guard jewellery shops and called for swift trials of those involved in thefts and robberies.

The association warned that if the security situation does not improve, they will decide their next course of action after 15 April.