Extortion allegation is politically motivated: Asif Mahmud

Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan, adviser to the Ministry of Youth and Sports and Local Government, has claimed that Jane Alam Apu’s statement about extortion at a former MP’s residence in capital's Gulshan is completely politically motivated.

He made the remarks on Thursday (14 August) while speaking to reporters at his office in the Secretariat.

Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan said, “I have no connection with Apu. I don’t believe anyone has yet been able to prove any link between me and this matter. In fact, it has been alleged that the interview given was taken under pressure, which is extremely serious.”

He further said, “The claims about my involvement are completely politically motivated. Many such things have happened before, and we have dealt with them. You may see more in the future.”

The adviser noted that since the investigation is ongoing, he should not comment extensively on the matter. However, he expressed surprise that his name was specifically mentioned.
Asif Mahmud said, “I knew Jane Alam Apu back in 2022 when I was involved with the Chhatra Odhikar Parishad. After 5 August 2024, I have had no contact with him.”

He also said, “Today, Apu’s wife claimed in a press conference that he was forcibly made to give a statement. If true, this is extremely concerning.”

The adviser added that he cannot confirm whether he went in front of Hotel Westin, and it is difficult to assess how reliable it is to identify a helmeted person in the CCTV footage as him.

In relation to the extortion incident in Gulshan, Jane Alam Apu, the expelled joint convener of Bangladesh Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad, released a 35-minute video on social media detailing the event.

Apu’s wife said, “From 11:30pm on 31 July until 7.00am the following morning, Apu was detained and forced to give a confession.” She also added, “All the videos and photos circulating on social media were recorded at Ishraque Hossain’s house.”