RAJSHAHI, March 3, (V7N) - A gang has been accused of holding a young man and woman hostage along the Padma River bank in Harupur area, Rajshahi city, demanding large sums of money and robbing them of cash and mobile phones. The incident occurred Saturday morning behind the Rajshahi Hi-Tech Park in the Ibandh area.

Victims reported that the gang demanded Tk 50,000 from the girl and Tk 30,000 from the boy, accusing them of “immoral activities.” When the money was not paid, the boy’s mobile phone and wallet were snatched. Despite two days passing, police have not yet recovered the stolen items or arrested anyone.

Local dentist Tabarak Rahman and BSCIC employee Mamun Billah intervened to rescue the young woman. Mamun, who was walking with his child, said the gang forcibly took the pair to a nearby crematorium and pressured them to transfer money via mobile banking. When the boy escaped, the girl was held hostage. Mamun called the national emergency number 999, and police later found the girl near Bulanpur.

Rahman said he was attacked when he insisted the gang be taken to the police station. He noted that the gang members wore similar jerseys, one marked “Tuhin,” and described them as an organized group targeting couples along the riverbank.

Kashiadanga Police Station OC Farhad Ali said the incident site falls under another jurisdiction, and the victims were handed over to Rajpara Police Station. OC Abdul Malek confirmed a written complaint has been filed and that efforts are underway to identify the culprits and recover the stolen phone.

The incident has sparked concern among residents, who say organized gangs are exploiting young people along the Padma River by intimidation and extortion.

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