Mongla, Sept 13 (V7N) – Construction work on a road inside the Malgazi Catholic Mission in Chandpai Union of Mongla upazila has been halted following alleged extortion threats. According to local residents, a man identified as Hafizur Rahman Hafiz demanded Tk 50,000 from the contractors, and when they refused to pay, he forcibly stopped the work.

In protest, men and women from the local Christian community staged a human chain and demonstration on Saturday afternoon in front of Malgazi Church, demanding the immediate arrest of the accused.

During the protest, schoolteacher Subrata Mondol, a victim, said Hafiz threatened him and demanded Tk 50,000, leaving him in fear for his safety. Another resident, Md. Babul, alleged that Hafiz demanded Tk 5,000 from him with threats. Bappi Halder claimed he was abducted by Hafiz’s men and forced to pay extortion money. Mina Biswas stated that Hafiz has been extorting money across the area, leaving residents of all communities distressed and insecure.

The protesters urged law enforcement agencies to take swift action and ensure Hafiz’s arrest to restore peace in the locality.

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