In a press conference on March 8, Mohammad Abdur Rahman, Admin Incharge of Ar Rad Corporation, condemned the obstruction and extortion demands by Nazirul Hazi, Chairman of Budigoalini Union Parishad, against the company’s ongoing riverbank protection project funded by JICA in Shyamnagar, Satkhira.
Abdur Rahman detailed how, since August 5, local chairman Nazirul Hazi had been demanding 12 lakh taka in extortion, threatening to disrupt the project if not paid. He also pressured the company to give illegal benefits and intimidate workers. Despite filing complaints and informing local authorities, the threats continued, and the project’s work was halted due to vandalism and threats from Hazi’s group.
Liberty News’ local correspondent states that despite these challenges, the company persisted in continuing work after receiving help from the local military camp. Rahman stressed that the company is committed to completing the project and requested the support of authorities to ensure safety and continue progress.
LND/BG
