Rangamati, Aug 20 (V7N) - Residents of the hill regions are increasingly frustrated with the extortion practices of indigenous armed groups. The situation intensified when two extortionists were apprehended with firearms while assaulting an elderly businessman for failing to meet their extortion demands. The incident took place at 11 AM on Tuesday in Bangalhalia, Rajsthali Upazila, Rangamati.
 
In response to the violence, enraged locals set fire to the armed camp of the Mongol National Front (MNF) located near the market. Arun Sen, the General Secretary of the Bangalhalia Market Association, reported that members of the MNF were seen attacking a small trader outside the shop of the elderly businessman Aziz Saodagar for not paying enough extortion money. When Aziz intervened, he was brutally beaten by the extortionists, resulting in a head injury. Local residents, angered by the assault, intervened and captured two of the extortionists along with their weapons.
 
The community, in protest, closed all market stalls and marched to the MNF camp, setting it on fire. Senior military officials, including the Rangamati Region Commander and Kaptai Zone Commander, arrived at the scene to negotiate between the aggrieved business owners and the protesters. After receiving assurances from the military, businesses began to reopen by 2 PM.
 
Business leaders and residents reported that the Bangalhalia Market, which handles transactions worth about 30 crore Taka each week, is burdened by extortion demands from various sources, including the district council, union council, and armed groups. The excessive extortion fees have driven many traders away, worsening their situation. Despite protests and complaints, MNF's extortion activities continue.
 
In response to the issues raised, military officials pledged to take action against the extortionists and ensure that no armed groups are allowed to operate in Bangalhalia.
 
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