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IGP’s order yields results

Transport sector experiences slash in extortion rate, but vested quarter still active


Published : 18 Jun 2020 09:26 PM | Updated : 07 Sep 2020 10:13 PM

The illegal extortions prevalent in the transport sectors have been slashed down significantly after Inspector General of Police Dr Benazir Ahmed instructed everyone to take effective measures with a view to putting an end to this practice.

However, sources in the transport sectors claimed that toll collections are still going on under the banner of some bus companies.

Bangladesh Sarak Paribahan League President Mohammad Hanif Khokhon said to this correspondent, “Extortions by the transport workers and owners’ associations have been totally stopped. But some bus companies are still collecting tolls in the name of allowing others to use their company names for other bus owners.”

According to a transport leader, earlier at least Tk 10 crore were collected as extortions from the transport sector everyday. Transport workers, owners and bus companies were collecting these illegal tolls. Even the CNG run auto-rickshaws and human haulers were not spared.

Responding to a question, transport leader Hanif added, “Government should launch an investigation into the illegal wealth amassed by the mafias in the transport sector.” He also demanded to confiscate their illegal wealth and freeze banks accounts immediately.

After getting instruction from the IGP Benazir Ahmed, all operational units of police started the drives against illegal toll collection from vehicles on June 1. Earlier, he held a discussion with transport owners at the police headquarters.
In accordance with the instructions of the police chief, all operational units of the police have been taking stern actions against all types of extortionists active in the transport sector.

Mir Sohel Rana, assistant inspector general (Media and Public Relations) of Police Headquarters, said, “Around 109 people were arrested for their involvement in extortions till 17 June while 51 cases were filed with different police stations in connection with extortion at various points on the roads and highways in the country.”

AIG Sohel went on to say, “The ongoing drives against transport sector’s extortionists will continue until it is brought down to zero.”