OC Who Extorted Money, Fish and AC from Awami League Leader Through Case Threats Withdrawn

Gopalganj Correspondent

Mohammad Shafiuddin Khan, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Kashiani Police Station in Gopalganj, has been withdrawn from his post.

He has been attached to police lines following allegations of extorting cash, air conditioners and fish from an Awami League leader and local representatives by threatening them with false cases.

On April 5 (Saturday), a leaked phone call recording of the OC demanding bribes by threatening legal action went viral on social media, sparking widespread outrage. On April 6 (Sunday), he was withdrawn from duty.

Additional Superintendent of Police (Sadar Circle) Abu Saleh Mohammad Ansar Uddin has been asked to investigate the incident and submit a report within 48 hours.

According to the call recording, OC Shafiuddin asked Zakir Hossain, a local Awami League leader and member of Kashiani Sadar Union’s Barashur area, to buy him a 2-ton AC. He specifically mentioned Sharp or Energy Pack brand AC and said to bring it from Dhaka if not available in Gopalganj.

Zakir Hossain said, “Out of fear, I bought an LG brand AC on installments. Before this, SI Aminul Islam and others had extorted about Tk 2 lakh in cash from me by threatening cases. I was even forced to buy Tk 50,000 worth of fish.”

Zakir alleged OC Shafiuddin threatened him, saying his “crime” was being involved with Awami League politics and maintaining ties with party leaders.

SI Aminul Islam reportedly told Zakir, “You have trouble ahead.” The OC then repeatedly called him via WhatsApp demanding money. Several other Kashiani residents have also accused Shafiuddin of extorting money through intimidation.

Zakir said on March 16, the OC called him via WhatsApp and asked to meet at Tayeba Hotel in Bhatiyapara where he demanded the AC. When Zakir expressed financial constraints, Shafiuddin said, “I’ve helped you a lot. Many have complained against you – I’ve saved those records. Try to arrange it.”

Fearing consequences, Zakir bought an LG AC on March 23 under installment paying Tk 40,000 upfront.

Zakir claimed the OC had extorted over Tk 60 lakh from various people in Kashiani using similar threats. “No one speaks up out of fear. Anyone linked to Awami League or local leaders is targeted,” he said.

Gopalganj Superintendent of Police Mizanur Rahman said, “The matter is being taken seriously. The OC was withdrawn on Sunday noon and attached to police lines. An investigation committee has been formed to submit a report within 48 hours.”

Locals demanded proper investigation and exemplary punishment to restore public trust in law enforcement.