The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has initiated the process of compiling a nationwide, “unbiased” list of individuals involved in extortion, with plans to take swift legal action once the list is finalized.
Wing Commander MZM Intekhab Chowdhury, director of RAB’s legal and media wing, came up with the disclosure during a press conference held at the RAB Media Centre in capital’s Karwan Bazar on Saturday.
He said, the initiative is being carried out under directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
He noted that all 15 RAB battalions have already begun field-level operations, with intensified intelligence surveillance supporting the list preparation.
Responding to a question regarding the inclusion of politically affiliated individuals, the RAB official stressed that the list would remain completely impartial. “No bias will be tolerated. Action will be taken against anyone found guilty, regardless of their identity,” he said.
He further added that the process is being expedited, and operations against those listed may begin as soon as the list is completed—potentially even immediately in certain cases.
According to RAB, extortion remains prevalent across multiple sectors, including highway-based extortion in the transport industry, illegal collection of money from market traders, and coercion targeting businesses and institutions. The list will encompass offenders at all levels, from small-scale operators to major figures.
RAB also highlighted that many victims refrain from filing complaints due to fear or security concerns. In such cases, the list is being compiled using intelligence inputs, field investigations, and information gathered from various sources, all of which are undergoing thorough verification before inclusion.