Author: Bikash Chandra Das
Affiliation: Director, Ministry of Home Affairs, Dhaka, Bangladesh
This mixed-method study evaluates the effectiveness of Bangladesh Ansar & VDP in community-based crime prevention. Based on questionnaire data from 200 community members and semi-structured interviews with Ansar & VDP personnel and local stakeholders, the study examines community trust, preventive visibility, coordination with formal law enforcement, perceived safety, and operational limitations. Findings indicate strong community awareness and generally positive perceptions of Ansar & VDP, particularly in preventive patrols and support to police. The study also identifies limitations related to authority, training, resources, and role clarity and recommends stronger institutional coordination and capacity development.