Extortion in new form: Motorcycle theft syndicate active again in Bandarban

The motorcycle theft syndicate in Bandarban has become active once again. Reports of motorcycle theft are being recorded daily in the district headquarters and surrounding areas. In an unusual twist, after stealing the motorcycles, the thieves leave a contact number written on the wall at the theft site. Owners can recover their stolen motorcycles by paying the demanded ransom. This syndicate is employing a unique method to extort money from the vehicle owners.

According to law enforcement agencies and locals, more than a hundred motorcycles have been stolen across Bandarban since the mass uprising on August 5. Most of the incidents have been reported in the district headquarters. In the current month alone, 17 motorcycles have been stolen in the district town, with an additional 35 in Sadar Upazila. Notably, five motorcycles were stolen from Member Para last week. Since January of this year, a total of 287 motorcycles have been stolen across the district's seven upazilas.

Interestingly, once the ransom is paid, the stolen motorcycles are returned to the owners, often left in ponds, jungle slopes, or other abandoned areas as directed by the thieves.

Locals complain that despite repeated thefts, law enforcement has failed to apprehend any members of the organized syndicate. Victims have expressed frustration, especially since a contact number, 01891788228, left by the thieves for ransom negotiations remains active, yet no visible action has been taken by the authorities. Some local hill and Bengali youths are suspected of involvement with the syndicate. There is a growing demand to identify and take legal action against this group using modern technology.

One of the victims, Mohammad Saidul Islam, shared his experience, stating that thieves broke the lock on the gate of a building in Member Para and stole two motorcycles from the parking area. After contacting the number written on the wall, the syndicate demanded a ransom of BDT 60,000 for both motorcycles. Upon payment, one motorcycle was recovered from Dewanji Pond in Bandarban town, while the other was found in Keranihat, Satkania, as per the instructions given by the thieves. Saidul described this as an innovative extortion method and urged authorities to take immediate action against the syndicate.

Confirming the situation, Bandarban Superintendent of Police Mohammad Shahidullah Kawsar said the police are actively working to apprehend the syndicate members. He assured that the culprits would be brought to justice soon. To this end, surveillance at police checkpoints has been intensified.