Bangladesh Vows Zero Tolerance on Extortion, Police Complicity

Bangladesh's Home Minister, Salahuddin Ahmed, has declared a stringent "zero tolerance" policy against extortion and vowed to bring law enforcement officers involved in such crimes to justice. Speaking to journalists after visiting a doctor injured by an alleged extortion gang, Ahmed stated that any policeman found complicit in extortion would face legal consequences.

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if any policeman is found involved in extortion, or evidence is found against them of assisting extortion, they would be brought under the law.

The minister's remarks came after the arrest of four members of a seven-person gang, including its alleged ringleader, within 48 hours of an attack on a doctor in Shantinagar. The gang reportedly targeted hospitals, doctors, engineers, and affluent professionals, using threats and physical violence to demand large sums of money. Ahmed praised the swift action by the police and Detective Branch in apprehending the suspects.

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The government will follow a “zero tolerance” policy against such crimes.

Ahmed emphasized that the crackdown on extortion would persist until the practice is eradicated. He revealed that authorities are compiling lists not only of criminals but also of police personnel allegedly involved in or aiding extortion activities. "Criminals and their patrons, regardless of their influence, would be brought under the law," he asserted.

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We will not tolerate such activities by extortionists.

In addition to combating extortion, the government is enhancing security measures for vulnerable professionals. Plans include deploying 10 Ansar members to each of the country's 500 hospitals. Doctors seeking personal security were advised to inform the police, and the minister indicated that applications for firearm licenses for self-defense would be considered seriously under existing regulations.

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We are not only preparing lists of extortionists and criminals; if any police member is involved in or assists extortion, their names are also being listed.