Silent Extortion and Covert Attacks in Shahbagh

Shahbagh, Dhaka – Business owners in Shahbagh, a key commercial hub near major healthcare facilities, have raised serious concerns over systematic extortion, covert assaults, and intimidation linked to politically affiliated groups. Several local figures, claiming ties to student political organisations, are reported to have established networks controlling pharmacies and other businesses in the area.

Taskeen Gazi, a local figure accused of exerting control over the pharmaceutical trade, admitted in a conversation with journalists, “I have been in politics for many years. Now, am I expected to go hungry? I have become like a mad dog of the Shravan month; when you lose your senses, everyone becomes vulnerable.” Despite holding no official position, he identifies himself as a leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) or its student wing.

Victims allege that these groups demand fixed sums either as monthly payments or one-off contributions. Non-payment has reportedly led to threats, abductions, and in some cases, violent attacks. Separate groups have also been reported to extort money from ambulance services, the Bangladesh Medical University ICU, footpath vendors, and the local flower market.

A recent incident on 27 February saw a pharmacy employee at Poribag Supermarket assaulted after failing to pay the demanded sum. The employee was struck with iron rods, sustaining injuries, and robbed of BDT 52,000 and a mobile phone worth approximately BDT 25,000. Earlier, student-wing leaders, including Md. Mithun and Md. Baizid Molla, allegedly demanded BDT 100,000 from the same pharmacy. Shahbagh police have registered a case related to the attack.

Local business owners, speaking under anonymity, explained that extortion fees, colloquially called the “rate,” are set per shop, often around BDT 10,000 per month. Businesses with past affiliations to ruling party members reportedly face higher demands.

Summary of Recent Attacks and Extortion

Businesses also report that extortion extends to controlling ICU medicine supply at Bangladesh Medical University, where the 39-bed intensive care units require costly daily medication. Local political figures reportedly dictate which pharmacies can supply these medicines, with store owners compelled to pay fees for the privilege.

Khaja Habibullah, a BNP Dhaka South member, denied receiving extortion money, stating, “I am from the Nawab family. Perhaps some may take my name, but I do not receive money. I only advise that no one should harm patients or shop owners.”

Shahbagh police have made arrests in connection with the 27 February attack, including Baizid and two associates, while investigations continue for other suspects. Victims emphasise that administrative oversight is urgently required to dismantle these extortion networks and restore business security in this crucial medical-commercial zone.