Cumilla, May 13 -- A rise in criminal cases in Cumilla during April has triggered concern among residents and officials, with murder, rape, theft and violence against women showing an upward trend in the district.

According to data presented at the monthly district law and order committee meeting, a total of 584 cases were filed in April across different categories of crime, up from 517 cases in March - an increase of 67 cases within a month.

The statistics were disclosed at a meeting held recently at the conference room of the Deputy Commissioner's office, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Md Reza Hasan.

Officials said the increase in cases could indicate both a rise in criminal activities and stronger enforcement measures by law enforce...