Traders attacked during anti-extortion protest in Dhaka’s Karwan Bazar

Police say a group of unidentified people armed with sticks attacked the traders during a protest against alleged extortion

Traders protesting extortion at Dhaka's Karwan Bazar have allegedly been attacked by a group of people during a demonstration on Monday.

The incident took place around 11:30am on Monday when traders from the kitchen market were holding a human-chain protest, according to police.

Tejgaon Police Station chief (OC) Kayshainu Marma said a group of unidentified people armed with sticks launched the attack, leading to brief back-and-forth chases between the two sides.

Police later arrived at the scene and brought the situation under control, he added.

Traders said they had organised the protest in response to what they described as months of extortion in the area. They said the attack took place shortly after the demonstration began.

Some traders alleged that members of the Jubo Dal, the BNP's youth affiliate, were involved in the incident, although police have yet to confirm the claim.

OC Kayshainu said no injuries have been reported so far nor have any formal complaints been filed with police.