Handwritten notes demanding money and threatening killings have triggered panic among around 30 families in Mirpur Upazila of Kushtia, with criminals allegedly using the name of the outlawed Purba Banglar Party and its Chuadanga region.
Residents of Kursha, Ishelmari, Putimari and Bhedamari villages said they received letters over the past two months demanding different amounts of money, along with names, mobile financial service numbers and locations for payment.
One note seen by TIMES of Bangladesh asked 12 listed families to pay Tk5,000 each within two days, claiming it was issued on behalf of “Purba Banglar Party”. Another demanded Tk40,000 from an individual and threatened to kill family members if the money was not paid.
Local residents said one family in Putimari has kept its house locked for nearly two months after receiving a note demanding Tk2 lakh. The family members are now staying at relatives’ homes, fearing for their safety.
Several victims said the letters contained personal details about their families, increasing their fear. Some residents have avoided staying at home, while others have sought help from law enforcement.
Md Mizanur Rahman filed a general diary (GD) with Mirpur Police Station on 4 July, seeking security after learning about threats made through such letters. He said several villagers had been targeted and they were staying alert while police investigated the matter.
Locals said the area was once known for extremist activities, and the use of a former extremist group’s name has revived concerns. However, it remains unclear whether any actual extremist organisation is behind the threats or whether a criminal gang is using the name to extort money.
Mirpur Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Mohammad Shahidul Islam said several GDs had been filed over the extortion threats. Police have visited affected areas, increased surveillance and are working to identify those involved.
Kushtia Superintendent of Police Aminul Islam said police had launched operations to uncover the people behind the incident.
