Rangamati, Aug 24 (V7N) – A resurgence of organized extortion activities has sparked fear among business owners and contractors in Rangamati town. According to several credible sources, an unidentified group has been demanding large amounts of money under the false identities of various regional political groups, including the JSS, JSS (Reform), UPDF, and UPDF (Democratic).
 
Local business owners report that extortionists have been contacting them via mobile phones or dispatching individuals directly, demanding payments amounting to millions of Bangladeshi Taka. In many cases, the threats are accompanied by intimidation, warning of severe consequences if demands are not met.
 
Speaking anonymously out of fear, several affected businesspersons stated, “Every day they use different names and demand money. They say if we don’t pay, we won’t be able to continue our business. We’re scared and don’t dare speak publicly.”
 
One recent incident involved a group of armed individuals arriving by microbus at the construction site of a project funded by an international agency. They allegedly demanded Tk 20 lakh in broad daylight at the Doel Square area of Rangamati town.
 
When contacted, Officer-in-Charge, (OC) of Rangamati Kotwali Police Station, Mohammad Shahed Uddin, confirmed that no formal or verbal complaint has been filed so far. “If we receive any complaint, we will investigate and take necessary legal action. We are also verifying whether these extortion cases are real and who might be involved,” he said.
 
In response to growing public concern, the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF), a regional political group known for opposing the Chittagong Hill Tracts Peace Accord, issued a press release denying any involvement in the recent extortion incidents.
 
The group’s spokesperson, Angya Marma, acknowledged reports of extortion being carried out in the name of UPDF. In a statement issued Saturday, August 23, he warned the public to be cautious of fraudulent calls made using the name of UPDF General Secretary Ravi Shankar Chakma and a person known as "Orchid," who, according to UPDF, is not a member of their organization.
 
“Several individuals have been contacting businesspeople and professionals from the phone numbers 0186391021, 01846894508, 01575646133, 01858039613, 01888232591, and 01867570323, falsely claiming to represent UPDF leaders,” said Angya Marma.
 
He further clarified that Ravi Shankar Chakma has no direct involvement with the financial operations of the party, and the name "Orchid" does not appear in their membership. “These activities are aimed at damaging the party’s reputation. We urge the public to reject any such demands and to report them to the authorities.”
 
Civic leaders in Rangamati have voiced strong concern, warning that continued extortion could cripple local commerce and deter investment. The business community has urged law enforcement agencies to act swiftly and decisively to identify and bring these criminal elements to justice so that traders can operate in a secure environment.
 
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