David Emon’s remand brings relief, but Chattogram businesses remain wary
Police say the remand will help uncover the operations of an alleged extortion network that targeted business owners with threats, armed attacks and demands for large sums of money.
Business owners in Chattogram expressed relief after a Chattogram court today (2 August) placed David Emon on a 10-day remand in two separate cases, as investigators moved to probe an alleged extortion network accused of targeting businesses through armed attacks, foreign phone calls and death threats.
The remand has eased immediate fears among businessmen who had faced threats from the alleged network, but they said the sense of security remains fragile as other members of the group are still at large.
"The arrests have sent a reassuring message to the business community," Smart Group Managing Director Mujibur Rahman told The Business Standard. "Those who threatened businessmen for extortion are finally being brought to justice. That has certainly given us a greater sense of relief."
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He said businesses were able to continue operations during the crisis due to the administration's support, but stressed that lasting confidence would depend on dismantling the entire network.
Mohammad Robiul Hossain, head of sales at DDN, said Emon's arrest was an important step, but businesses remained cautious.
"The person who threatened us has been arrested, but not everyone involved has been caught. We still cannot say we are completely safe," he said, adding that confidence would return only if law enforcement continued its crackdown against the remaining members of the network.
Chattogram Superintendent of Police Mohammad Masud Alam said no criminal, "regardless of influence, is above the authority of the state".
How the alleged network operated
Police say the network systematically profiled its targets before demanding money, collecting details on businessmen and expatriates, including their income, assets such as under-construction buildings, and the financial standing of their family members.
Victims then allegedly received calls from foreign WhatsApp numbers demanding payments ranging from several lakh to several crore taka. Those who refused were threatened with shootings, attacks on their businesses or harm to family members.
Investigators say area-based couriers collected the cash before delivering it to a man identified as Yusuf near Chattogram's GEC intersection. The money was then transferred to Emon through hundi channels or multiple bank accounts. Police are searching for Yusuf.
Business leaders described Emon's arrest as a significant breakthrough against organised extortion but said lasting security depends on dismantling the entire network, including its financiers, couriers and field operatives.
Suspected links under scrutiny
Law enforcement agencies also suspect links between Emon and Boro Sazzad, though investigators say they have yet to establish the full extent of the alleged connection.
RAB-7 Commanding Officer Lt Col Hafizur Rahman said some criminals attempt to project influence by invoking the names of long-absconding figures. "Our operations remain focused on those committing crimes inside the country."
Chattogram Judicial Magistrate Mutasim Billah today granted five days' remand for Emon in the Jamal murder case filed with Fatikchhari Police Station and another five days in an illegal arms recovery case.
Four of Emon's associates were also remanded for five days in the arms case.
The order came days after police arrested Emon near the Jashore border while he was allegedly attempting to flee to India. Earlier operations had led to the arrest of at least 22 of his associates. Emon faces 34 cases, including murder, illegal arms possession and extortion.
Additional Superintendent of Police Kazi Mohammad Tarek Aziz said the remand was sought to advance the investigation.
