Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Sunday said the vandalism at content creator Salman Muqtadir’s studio in Dhaka stemmed from a land dispute, describing Salman’s allegation that the BNP is an extortionist party as a “sweeping” claim.
Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat, the home minister noted that Salman himself admitted no specific person had demanded extortion money from him, adding that Salman stated he would have paid had anyone asked.
Salahuddin pointed out that no specific individual has been identified as demanding money and that the content creator has not filed any formal case regarding the incident.
Addressing allegations made by Salman during a Facebook Live broadcast, the minister added that making statements falls under democracy and freedom of speech, but questioned why no case had been lodged, assuring that authorities will investigate if a specific case is filed.
The minister acknowledged that Salman was victimised in the incident and confirmed that authorities have conducted a brief preliminary inquiry, though a more detailed investigation is required. He added that legal proceedings are currently underway and a case could be filed soon.
According to the minister, the incident occurred amidst a conflict over attempts to take possession of approximately 35 kathas of land in Manikdi Nampara under Cantonment Police Station.
The preliminary report identified the two parties involved in the property dispute as a developer, New Gini Properties, and a retired senior military officer.
On Saturday night, several individuals acting on behalf of the retired senior military officer went to the premises to take possession of the land and vandalised several structures.
Among the damaged property was a tin-shed facility housing Brownfish Studio, where Salman and his team regularly produce content.
Attackers ransacked the studio, damaging cameras, furniture, recording equipment, and other facilities, while his YouTube Silver and Gold Play Buttons were also reportedly damaged.
Police dispatched officers to the scene after receiving an alert via the national emergency helpline 999. Three individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident, and police have recovered evidence including bullet casings and locally made weapons.
