Dhaka Police Prepare Crackdown on Extortion

Authorities in Dhaka have finalised a comprehensive list identifying suspected extortionists, armed criminals, and repeat offenders operating across the capital. The list, compiled by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police, is currently undergoing a verification process before a large-scale law enforcement operation is launched against those named.

Senior police officials confirmed that preparations for the crackdown are in their final stages. The authorities are carefully reviewing the list and planning the operational strategy to ensure that the campaign is conducted effectively and without failure. Special priority is being given to individuals involved in extortion activities, which law enforcement agencies describe as one of the most persistent criminal problems in several parts of the capital.

The initiative follows firm directives issued by Home Affairs Adviser Salahuddin Ahmed during a recent meeting with senior officers at the Dhaka Metropolitan Police headquarters. At the meeting, he instructed police to take decisive legal action against individuals involved in extortion, armed violence, and other serious crimes. According to officials, the operation will initially begin in Dhaka and later be expanded gradually across the country.

Focus on Organised Extortion

Police sources revealed that the newly prepared list includes approximately one hundred and forty individuals identified as leading extortion suspects in the capital. Authorities believe these individuals are involved in organised criminal groups that collect illegal payments from businesses, market traders, transport operators, and construction projects.

Several areas in the capital have been identified as particularly vulnerable to such activities. Markets and commercial hubs in Kawran Bazar, Mohammadpur, Mirpur, and Pallabi reportedly have a high concentration of individuals suspected of extortion.

Law enforcement officials believe that these locations attract organised criminal groups because of their large commercial activities and steady cash transactions.

The current status of the police initiative is summarised below:

Operational Preparations

Officers in charge of multiple police stations across the capital confirmed that they have already prepared detailed lists of suspected criminals and submitted them to their respective Deputy Commissioners. After initial verification at divisional offices, the lists have been forwarded to the Dhaka Metropolitan Police headquarters for further scrutiny and approval.

One officer from the Motijheel division stated that police units are now waiting for final instructions from senior authorities before launching the operation.

“We have already completed the preparation and submission of the list. Our officers are ready, and once we receive the directive from headquarters, the operation will begin immediately,” the officer said.

Police officials added that officers at station level, including sub inspectors and assistant sub inspectors, have been briefed about the planned campaign. They have been instructed to gather updated intelligence about the suspects listed and monitor their movements. Surveillance and information gathering are currently under way to identify the networks associated with these individuals.

Government Push for Improved Security

Senior officials at police headquarters indicated that the Home Affairs Adviser has held several meetings with law enforcement leaders since assuming office. These meetings have focused on strengthening public security and improving the overall law and order situation in the country.

Two key priorities were highlighted during these discussions. The first is to prepare a verified list of extortion suspects and take legal action against them. The second is to create an accurate and impartial database of armed criminals and repeat offenders who pose threats to public safety.

Authorities have instructed police officers to maintain strict neutrality and professionalism while compiling the lists, ensuring that only verified offenders are included.

Call for Public Support

Government officials emphasised that restoring public confidence in law enforcement institutions is a major objective of the initiative. Eliminating organised extortion networks and armed criminal groups is expected to improve safety for businesses and residents throughout the capital.

The Home Affairs Adviser has also called on citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting criminal activities in their neighbourhoods. Officials believe that community cooperation, combined with decisive policing, will be essential in restoring law and order.

Once the operation begins, authorities expect it to send a strong signal that organised crime and extortion will not be tolerated, reinforcing the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring a safer environment for the people of Dhaka.