DHAKA, Apr 11, 2026 (BSS) - The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has begun preparing an “unbiased” list of extortionists across Bangladesh as part of a nationwide crackdown.

Speaking at a press conference held at the RAB Media Centre in Karwan Bazar, RAB’s Director of Legal and Media Wing, Wing Commander M Z M Intekhaba Chowdhury, said the list will include offenders from all levels, ranging from petty extortionists to major figures.

He said the initiative follows directives from the Home Ministry to identify and take action against extortionists. 

“After the list is finalized, legal action will be taken against every individual listed. No one will be spared,” he said, adding that RAB is working to bring offenders under the law as quickly as possible.

According to him, all 15 RAB battalions have been instructed by the Director General to begin work on compiling the list, and the process is already underway. 

He expressed hope that the result of the drive will be visible soon.

Responding to questions, Chowdhury said extortion takes place in various forms and levels, and RAB is addressing all aspects of the issue.

On allegations of political pressure, he claimed that since the July Mass Uprising, RAB has not faced any such influence and has not been involved in human rights violations.

Regarding a recent allegation that individuals identified as alleged Jubo Dal leaders demanded Tk 500,000 from a kidney specialist’s hospital in Shyamoli, he said the matter is currently under police investigation. 

RAB has also initiated intelligence verification and will take action if the allegation is substantiated.

The elite force also highlighted recent operations, including the arrest of two suspected human traffickers in Cox’s Bazar, the arrest of a top criminal with weapons in Khulna, and the arrest of a suspect within 48 hours in a attack case in Chattogram.

Additional operations included the detention of a listed criminal and drug dealer in Sonargaon and the seizure of 500,000 yaba pills from a fishing trawler in Patenga.

RAB officials reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying operations against extortion, drug trafficking, and organized crime across the country.