In a sustained drive against extortion networks operating within the capital, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police have arrested a total of 152 individuals over the past two days as part of a special enforcement operation targeting organised extortionists and their associates.
The information was disclosed on Sunday during a media briefing held at the police media centre in Dhaka by the acting Commissioner of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police, Md Sarwar. He stated that the ongoing operation, which commenced on the 1st of the month, will continue without interruption, with law enforcement maintaining a firm stance against organised criminal activity.
According to the police, of those arrested, 58 individuals were identified as listed extortionists, while a further 94 were apprehended on charges of assisting them in their illegal activities. Authorities confirmed that many of those detained have longstanding allegations of involvement in systematic extortion across various sectors in the capital.
During the briefing, officials also reported the recovery of substantial evidence from the arrested suspects. This includes extortion ledgers, financial transaction records, video footage, and other documentary materials believed to be linked to coordinated criminal operations. These materials are expected to be presented in court as part of ongoing investigations.
A summary of the enforcement action is presented below:
| Category of Information | Number / Details |
|---|---|
| Arrested extortionists | 58 persons |
| Arrested associates | 94 persons |
| Total arrests | 152 persons |
| Seized evidence | Ledgers, transaction records, video footage, documents |
The acting Commissioner further noted that the crackdown is not limited solely to extortion-related offences. Parallel operations are also being conducted against narcotics trafficking networks. In recent days, multiple significant drug consignments have been seized, and several individuals linked to these networks have been detained.
He added that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend the principal organisers and alleged masterminds behind these criminal groups. Law enforcement agencies are reportedly working to map out the broader structure of these networks to ensure that higher-level operators are brought under legal scrutiny.
Reaffirming the police position, Md Sarwar emphasised that no individual’s influence, status, or background would be considered a factor in the enforcement of the law. He stated that all offenders, regardless of their social or political standing, would be treated equally under legal procedures.
He further warned that any attempts to interfere in ongoing arrests or to secure the release of detainees through pressure or lobbying would themselves be treated as criminal conduct. According to police authorities, such interference may lead to legal action against those involved, as it is considered an extension of the criminal network.
Officials stated that extortion groups operating in different areas of Dhaka have long been involved in extracting money from traders, transport operators, and members of the public. The current operation has been designed based on intelligence monitoring and coordinated planning to dismantle these networks systematically.
Dhaka Metropolitan Police have reiterated their commitment to intensifying such drives in order to improve public safety and restore confidence among residents, with further operations expected to continue in the coming days.