In a tough stance against rising gun violence, Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) Commissioner Hasib Aziz has instructed his force to open fire with submachine guns (SMGs) on armed criminals without hesitation.

The directive, issued verbally through a wireless message on Tuesday afternoon, aims to bolster security following a series of daylight shootings in the port city.

Multiple CMP sources confirmed that between 12:30 pm and 1 pm, the commissioner issued several successive instructions over the police communication network.

Confirming the order, several officers quoted Commissioner Hasib Aziz as saying, “No shotguns, no Chinese rifles — only SMGs in brushfire mode.”

The commissioner also directed patrol units to carry SMGs along with Shisha shotguns, two gas guns, and 9mm pistols for team in-charges.

He further ordered the number of permanent checkposts to be increased from seven to thirteen.

Reminding officers of their right to self-defense and legal protection under the Penal Code, the CMP chief assured his force that he would take full responsibility for any consequences.

When contacted, Commissioner Hasib Aziz told reporters, “I’ve given a clear order to shoot armed criminals on sight. I expect my officers to act accordingly. We cannot allow Chattogram to become a haven for terrorists.”

He added, “The recent daylight killing in a crowded area has deeply alarmed us. People feel unsafe, and that’s unacceptable in a city under police protection. From today, patrol officers will replace shotguns and Chinese rifles with submachine guns. They’ll shoot any armed assailant on sight, and we’ve increased the number of checkposts to strengthen security.”