Staff Reporter:
Top terrorists from the underworld continue to pull strings in Bangladesh’s crime scene, orchestrating targeted killings and extortion from both inside the country and abroad. Despite law enforcement efforts, masterminds remain at large by employing unknown hitmen to eliminate rivals, often leaving the motives behind these murders shrouded in mystery.
Intelligence sources suggest that the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha has intensified the struggle for control over lucrative cattle markets in Dhaka. Fugitive leaders like Sanjidul Islam Imon, based in North America, and Mehedi Hasan, based in the United States, are reportedly using modern technology to coordinate extortion from afar. Even as police receive information regarding these activities, a lack of formal complaints from terrified victims hampers legal progress. Many businessmen and political leaders now panic at the sight of foreign phone numbers, fearing death threats.
The murder of Titton in the New Market area on 28 April highlights the violent rivalry over cattle market leases. Investigations suggest that Imon, despite being Titton’s brother-in-law, remains a person of interest in the case. Other notorious names like Picchi Helal and Killer Badal have also surfaced in recent murder investigations, yet they remain beyond the reach of the law.
Dr Towhidul Haque, an associate professor and crime expert at Dhaka University, noted that top terrorists use advanced technology that makes surveillance difficult for local authorities. He also pointed to allegations of political patronage and ties between criminals and some officials. “Public confidence will only grow if we place bailed terrorists under strict monitoring and ensure visible punishment,” he said.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed stated that law enforcement agencies are taking action against top terrorists released on bail. He assured that any criminal activity would lead to thorough investigations and legal consequences.
The Underworld’s influence extends across various sectors, including the internet and cable TV business, garment waste trade, and public contracting. Detective Branch (DB) Additional Commissioner Md Shofiqul Islam reaffirmed a “zero tolerance” policy against all criminals. “It does not matter if a criminal is inside or outside the country,” he stated. “If an investigation identifies them, we will include their names in the charge sheet and follow all legal procedures to bring them to justice.”
