Extortion and Armed Showdown in Tongi: Local BNP Leader Expelled

Md. Kamal Hossain Bulu, acting general secretary of Gazipur Ward 44 BNP, has been expelled from the party following allegations of armed extortion and leading a motorcycle showdown to seize control of local businesses in the Tongi BSCIC industrial area.

The expulsion took effect on Thursday (July 2) night, according to a official notice signed by Md. Mizanur Rahman Bepari, office secretary of the Tongi East Police Station BNP. The notice stated that Bulu was stripped of all party posts for clear involvement in anti-organizational activities that breached party discipline and damaged its public image.

The disciplinary action stems from an extortion and intimidation case filed at the Tongi East Police Station by local businessman Md. Nuruzzaman Zaman. The lawsuit accuses 19 named individuals—including local BNP and Jubo Dal leaders—alongside 70 to 80 unidentified people.

According to the case statement, Nuruzzaman has long operated a business in the BSCIC area. On June 27, Tongi East Jubo Dal member secretary Nazmul Hossain Mondal, Bulu, and Ward 46 Jubo Dal leader Md. Khalek allegedly demanded Tk 20 lakh (2 million) in extortion money from him.

When Nuruzzaman refused to pay, the accused allegedly staged a massive show of force the following day (June 28). Leading a fleet of over 100 motorcycles, they paraded through the industrial area, brandishing weapons, intimidating business owners, and attempting to forcibly take over the local trade.

Videos and photos of the armed convoy quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread panic among businessmen, factory workers, and residents.

In response, law enforcement launched a crackdown in the area. Police confirmed they have arrested 11 suspects so far—three during an initial raid and eight more on Wednesday night. Operations are ongoing to apprehend the remaining fugitives.