Lhakpa Quendren

Gelephu – The Royal Bhutan Police (RBP) launched an intelligence-led policing (ILP) model database system in Gelephu to check the rising crime.

The initiative after a successful trial in Thimphu and Paro was launched on November 5 serving as an alternative to conventional policing methods.

The ILP system aims to analyse crime trends and foster collaboration with local partners, striving to create a safer, more peaceful environment in Gelephu and Sarpang.

Deputy Chief of Police, Colonel Passang Dorji, emphasised the significance of achieving effective results. “We need to think differently and work diligently to reach our vision.”

Police launch new initiatives in Gelephu and Sarpang to reduce crime

Colonel Passang Dorji said that there was a need for adaptability and continuous adjustment in plans. “If we are committed to the work, nothing is impossible, and the initiative will succeed.”

Adapting to the ILP approach involves flexible strategies, according to Colonel Passang Dorji. He said that if the strategy is not working, then it needs to change and police have to explore other alternative strategies.

To mark the system’s launch, the Gelephu police introduced bike escorts, mountain bike escorts, and a quick reaction team (QRT). The bike escorts will oversee vehicle-pedestrian movement in town, while mountain bike escorts will monitor all six constituencies in Gelephu.

Gelephu’s Superintendent of Police, Lieutenant Colonel Chogyel Drukpa announced stringent enforcement of pedestrian crossing rules. “After a month of public awareness campaign, both drivers and pedestrians will face fines if they don’t comply with the law.”

With the ILP implementation, the QRT would adopt a proactive approach.

Lieutenant Colonel Chogyel Drukpa said, “The team will actively visit places with a high occurrence of crimes, allowing for immediate action rather than waiting for incident reports.”

In a bid to enhance safety in entertainment establishments, the police would intensify monitoring and collaborate closely with operators of the 22 centers in Gelephu.

Lieutenant Colonel Chogyel Drukpa said that these establishments need keep bouncers and assured providing safety and security training for personnel.

Identity card checks have become mandatory when entering entertainment centers as a deterrent to youth crime-related activities.

Most cases in Gelephu and Sarpang primarily involve drugs, battery, and burglary. The police intend to engage the public through community partnerships, aiming for collaboration with the government and relevant stakeholders.

Preventive measures under the ILP include squads focusing on public awareness, advocacy for property care and safety, public place safety, and the installation of security tools like CCTV and burglary alarms in homes.

The police will conduct “stop and frisk” procedures, particularly on those loitering outside at night, as a measure to ensure the safety and order in Gelephu and Sarpang.

Gelephu police division established a dedicated drug branch office to apprehend criminals under the law, while these criminals will also have access to counseling services.