Journalist’ Arrested in Chattogram for Tk 5 Million Extortion Attempt
Man Claiming to Be Journalist Arrested in Chattogram Over Tk 5 Million Extortion Allegation
Businessman Assaulted After Refusing to Pay Extortion Money
CHATTOGRAM, Bangladesh – Police have arrested a man identified as Ahmed Kabir on charges of demanding Tk 5 million (50 lakh) in extortion from a local businessman in Chattogram city. The suspect reportedly introduced himself as a journalist, according to police sources. The incident was reported by Prothom Alo and several other national dailies.
Victim Allegedly Threatened and Beaten
According to the complaint, the accused told the victim:
“Your land and business activities are doing well. If you want to continue doing business in Chattogram city, you must pay us Tk 5 million.”
When the demand was refused, the victim was allegedly assaulted.
The attack took place on Wednesday night in the Debarpar area of Garibullah Housing Society under Khulshi Police Station. The victim, Mohammad Siraj, works as a land brokerage intermediary, earning commissions by facilitating land sales across different areas of Chattogram.
Longstanding Money Demands
Siraj said he became acquainted with Ahmed Kabir around three to four months ago. Since then, Kabir had allegedly been demanding money from him. Recently, the demand increased to Tk 5 million.
On Wednesday night, while Siraj was heading to a nearby market, Kabir and four to five associates reportedly intercepted him in front of his residence and renewed their demand. When he refused, they allegedly punched and assaulted him indiscriminately.
Local residents intervened, prompting the attackers to flee after issuing further threats.
Medical Treatment and Legal Action
Following the assault, locals helped Siraj seek primary treatment at Chattogram Medical College Hospital. He later filed an extortion case at Khulshi Police Station on Friday. Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md. Zahedul Islam confirmed that one person had been arrested in connection with the case.
Police Investigation Underway
Sub-Inspector Masud Kamal, the investigating officer, said the accused not only assaulted Siraj but also allegedly attempted to abduct him during the attack.
Ahmed Kabir was arrested from the Lalkhan Bazar area of Chattogram on Saturday afternoon. Police stated that he identified himself as a journalist, though his professional credentials are being verified.
The investigation into the extortion and assault allegations is ongoing.
