Business · Bangladesh Bureau
Papel gang's extortion racket nets millions from Dhaka traders
An organised criminal gang has been systematically extorting money from traders and businesses across two areas of Dhaka, collecting millions of taka through intimidation at markets and riverside ghats. Authorities are investigating the widespread protection racket affecting hundreds of merchants.
LSN Bangladesh ·
A criminal network known as the Papel gang has been operating a large-scale extortion scheme targeting merchants and traders across multiple markets and waterfront areas in Dhaka, according to law enforcement sources. The gang has amassed millions of taka by demanding regular payments from business owners who operate at markets and ghats in two separate zones of the capital.
The extortion racket has affected hundreds of traders who say they face threats and intimidation if they fail to meet payment demands. Businesses ranging from small vendors to established merchants have reportedly been coerced into paying regular sums to gang members in exchange for operating without interference.
The Papel gang's operations have focused on high-traffic commercial areas where riverside markets and established trading zones provide consistent targets for their protection scheme. Investigators indicate the gang has developed a structured system for collecting payments and maintaining control over affected territories.
Authorities have initiated investigations into the scope and scale of the extortion network. Officials are working to identify gang members involved in the scheme and develop strategies to dismantle the operation, while encouraging victimised traders to come forward with information about their experiences.