CNG auto-rickshaw drivers in Gazipur staged a roadblock and protest on Thursday, demanding action against extortion and harassment by local goons and highway police, highlighting daily threats and forced payments.
CNG auto-rickshaw drivers in Gazipur’s Noljani area blocked the Dhaka-Joydebpur highway on Thursday morning, protesting against extortion and harassment. The protest began at 11:00 AM, with drivers expressing frustration over daily extortion and police intimidation.
During the protest, drivers handed over two extortionists, Ehsanul Haque (25) and Mohammad Saddam Hossain (32), to the police. According to the drivers, the extortion racket was led by Halim Molla, a leader of the Gazipur City Volunteer League, who allegedly forces drivers to pay 100 taka daily – drivers who refuse to comply are reportedly threatened with violence, and their money is forcibly taken. Those who protest are subjected to physical assault and further harassment.
The drivers also raised concerns over the harassment from highway police. While they face legal action and fines for operating on the highway, illegal battery-operated auto-rickshaws continue to run without obstruction.
The protesters attempted to contact Halim Molla to address the issue but were unable to reach him.
Liberty News’ local correspondent states that in response, Kaisar Ahmed, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Bashon Police Station, stated that efforts are underway to resolve the issue through discussions with the CNG drivers.
LND/BG
