List of extortionists being prepared, no one will be spared: RAB

The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) is preparing an unbiased list of extortionists. No one involved in extortion will be spared. Once the list is ready, swift legal action will be taken against all offenders at any time, RAB has said.

RAB Legal and Media Wing Director Wing Commander M Z M Intekhab Chowdhury disclosed the information at a press conference at the RAB Media Centre in Karwan Bazar, capital, on Saturday afternoon, April 11.

Intekhab Chowdhury said, "Following directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the process of preparing an 'unbiased' list of extortionists has begun. Fifteen RAB battalions have already started field-level work, and intelligence surveillance has been strengthened. Whoever is on the list, no one will be spared."

The RAB director said extortion is not limited to a specific sector.

Highway-based extortion in the transport sector, demanding money from businessmen in markets, creating pressure on various establishments—all types of extortion are being brought under the list. Offenders from small to large levels are being considered. In many cases, victims do not file complaints due to fear or security concerns. In such cases, the list is being prepared by cross-checking intelligence information, field-level investigations and information from various sources.

When asked what would happen if political individuals were on the list, Intekhab Chowdhury said, "The list will be completely unbiased. There will be no favouritism. Action will be taken against whoever the offender is. Work will be completed as soon as possible, and field operations will begin. That could start even today."