Trading at Comilla’s Bibir Bazar land port was suspended yesterday after traders went on an indefinite strike protesting against extortion.
The Clearing and Forwarding Agents Association (C&FAA), and the Exporter-Importer Association called for the strike.
C&FAA member Jamal Hossain claimed Tk120 was extorted on an average from a truck daily in the name of various organisations. “Drivers are beaten up if they refuse to pay. Over 50 traders were targeted by extortionists.”
Exporter-Importer Association General Secretary Nirmal Pal said they had written to Comilla’s deputy commissioner and police chief on April 26 last year but the problem was not addressed. “Our strike will continue until this matter is resolved.”
