Abu Sufian
BDNEWS writer
Dhaka, May 15 (BDNEWS) - The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) is preparing a list of businessmen who allegedly patronise dreaded criminals.
The list will include those businessmen who have no crime records but somehow patronise the gangsters for their interests, said a high official of the RAB preferring anonymity.
"Such initiatives to keep the records of the 'businessmen-godfathers' with the help of latest technology have been undertaken for the first time in the country," the official added.
He said that the intelligence wing of the RAB and the battalions are preparing the list based on intelligence reports, analysis of newspaper reports and complaints lodged by people.
Referring to the confessional statements of Picchi Hannan, who before being fallen a prey to "crossfire", disclosed the names of his godfathers, including some influential businessmen.
"Not only Pichchi Hannan, many dreaded criminals disclosed the names of many apparently 'gentle' businessmen as their godfathers," said the official.
In preparing the list, sources said, the RAB has also been investigating the financial records, political connection of the businessmen and their associates.
But the sources have declined to disclose the number of the 'businessmen-godfathers' who were 'red-marked' for patronising the underworld heavyweights.
Since the elite force was launched on March 26, 2004, nearly 1,000 terrorists were nabbed by the anti-crime elite force.
More than 90 alleged criminals, including a ward commissioner and 10 wanted terrors, were killed in 'encounters' with the RAB in last 14 months.
BDNEWS/1634 hrs
