Dhaka extortionists, criminals face arrest orders

The government has ordered law enforcement agencies to arrest alleged extortionists and criminals in Dhaka, with 47 people arrested from a list of 545 suspects over the past week, although uncertainty remains over the legal process for prosecuting those without existing cases.

According to police sources, intelligence agencies prepared the list and circulated it among law enforcement agencies, which launched arrest operations following the Home Ministry's directive.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Detective Branch chief Additional Commissioner Md Shafiqul Islam said the police had received the list and had been conducting arrest operations. Those facing existing cases are being shown arrested in those cases, while individuals found with weapons are being prosecuted under arms laws. For those without existing cases, authorities are considering detention under the Special Powers Act, 1974.

DMP officials said filing cases against the listed individuals remained a challenge, as victims were often reluctant to lodge complaints for fear of harassment. They also warned that cases lacking sufficient evidence could allow suspects to secure bail.

Attorney General Ruhul Quddus Kajal said law enforcement agencies must act transparently and strictly in accordance with the law, warning against unlawful arrests and harassment.

DMP sources said 156 of the 545 names on the list were from the Tejgaon division. Officials said investigations were underway to verify the allegations and gather evidence against those named.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has reportedly instructed officials to hand over arrested individuals to police for prosecution under regular cases, while further directives on the legal process are being prepared. The police headquarters has not confirmed whether a nationwide list of alleged extortionists and criminals has been prepared.