RAB preparing 'unbiased' list of extortionists nationwide

The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) is preparing an "unbiased" nationwide list of extortionists, with legal action to be taken swiftly against all individuals included once the list is finalised, the force said.

The announcement was made by Commander MZM Intekhab Chowdhury, director of Legal and Media Wing, at a press briefing held at the RAB Media Centre in the capital's Karwan Bazar today (11 April).

He said the initiative began following directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs. RAB's 15 battalions have already launched field-level operations, while intelligence surveillance has been intensified.

"The list will be completely neutral and free of bias. Regardless of political identity, anyone found involved in extortion will face action," he said.

According to the RAB official, the list will include extortion in the transport sector, highway-based extortion, forced collection of money from market traders, coercion of businesses and institutions, and other forms of extortion.

He added that offenders at all levels, from small-scale to major extortionists, are being considered.

Noting that victims often refrain from filing complaints due to fear or security concerns, Intekhab said the list is being prepared through intelligence inputs, field investigations, and verification of information gathered from multiple sources.

Regarding allegations that extortion was demanded from an entrepreneur of a hospital in Shyamoli, he said the matter was first reported to police and is currently under verification. 

RAB has also launched a shadow investigation over the incident and will take prompt action if the allegations are proven.