, Nov. 24 -- As Bangladesh approaches its national elections scheduled for February 2025, crime statistics indicate a rise in criminal incidents across the country, but police insist that the apparent deterioration in law and order does not reflect the real situation.

A senior official at the Police Headquarters, preferring not to be named, said the force is "fully prepared" to ensure nationwide security during the polls.

He cautioned that comparisons between past and present crime figures could be misleading.

"Earlier, many crime incidents were not recorded at local police stations. Now, almost every incident is being documented. So when you compare the two periods, it may seem like crime has increased. But in reality, law and order i...