BNP activists attack under-construction factory in Gazipur over Tk 10 lakh extortion demand

Local Correspondent

BNP activists allegedly attacked an under-construction factory in Gazipur’s Sreepur, halting work and demanding Tk 10 lakh as extortion, according to a written complaint filed on Wednesday afternoon by Abdul Bari, the security officer of Mac Hatchery (Unit-2). The complainant also reported receiving threats from the extortionists after filing the case.

The complaint stated that Jahangir Alam (40), Ibrak Ekanta (26), Md Sumon (38), Russel Akand (38), and Alif Akand (20), along with 50-60 unidentified individuals, have been obstructing the construction work and demanding extortion for several days. However, party leaders could not confirm whether the accused hold any positions in the local BNP.

According to Abdul Bari, “On Tuesday afternoon, the accused, armed with local weapons, attacked us, threatening and assaulting me, other officials, and construction workers for not paying the extortion. They then halted the construction work and drove the workers out of the factory, causing a loss of approximately Tk 5 lakh.”

He further alleged that the same group had previously stopped work and issued threats, stating the construction would not continue without the extortion money.

When asked about the allegations, accused Jahangir Alam said, “I am unaware of the complaint filed with the police. There was a coordination plan for party activists to collectively supply construction materials. However, Chhatra Dal activist Samiul Islam supplied them alone, which angered others and led to the work stoppage. Later, the issue was resolved, and work resumed.”

Samiul Islam stated, “I am supplying materials as per the work order. The accused have been obstructing the work for a long time. Now I hear they are using their party affiliation to demand Tk 10 lakh in extortion and halting the work.”

Efforts to contact Boromi Union BNP President Afaz Uddin Pradhan and Sreepur Upazila BNP President Shahjahan Fakir for comments were unsuccessful, as they did not respond to repeated calls.

Sreepur Police Sub-Inspector Mahbub said, “We have received a complaint about the obstruction of Mac Hatchery’s construction work and extortion demands. The matter is under investigation, and appropriate legal action will be taken.”