Mohammad Masuduzzaman Masud, President of the Narayanganj Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has alleged that extortion demands have been made from garment traders' associations BKMEA and Narayanganj Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

He disclosed this during a press conference organized by the Chamber on Saturday.

Masud stated that Tk 10 lakh was demanded from the Narayanganj Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Tk 5 lakh from BKMEA. Out of this, the Chamber has already paid Tk 3 lakh, while BKMEA has paid Tk 5 lakh.

Addressing the press, Masud said, "You all know about the recent extortion activities and the threats that have been made. Our Chamber was also targeted. They demanded Tk 10 lakh, and we settled at Tk 3 lakh, but there is still pressure for the remaining Tk 7 lakh. Our beloved organization, BKMEA, also had to pay Tk 5 lakh under pressure."

He added, "This extorted money must be returned. I’m not naming anyone yet, but I’m giving them time. If needed, I will raise a red card against them at the Shaheed Minar, and if necessary, drive them out of the city. I will also submit a written complaint to the party heads."

Masud further stated that despite directives from central leaders of various political parties to avoid extortion and occupation, local leaders continue to pressure them with calls, saying, "Brother, haven't you given the payment yet?"

He claimed to have personally received 'hundreds' of such calls.

"For the past month, extortion, occupation, and lawsuits have been ongoing. We businessmen are never involved in politics, but we often become victims of the situation. We live in fear of being oppressed but cannot speak up. When the situation changes, we are the ones who bear the brunt," the businessman lamented.