A report published by Amar Desh on August 7, 2026 said extortion has spread across Dhaka's footpaths, markets, transport, auto-rickshaws, river terminals, waste management and large businesses. It alleged that people who refuse to pay face assault, threats and harassment. The report identified Mohammadpur, Mirpur, Pallabi, Bhashantek, Keraniganj and Jatrabari among areas where the situation has generated public fear.

Police Headquarters data showed 696 extortion cases nationwide and 823 arrests from January through May this year. Dhaka Metropolitan Police recorded 236 extortion cases in the capital between February and May. DMP sources said 122 killings occurred in Dhaka through June. According to the report, investigations have pointed to political dominance, internal disputes, land-grabbing businesses and extortion as factors behind killings.

Citing information from agencies and local sources, the report said names of 329 influential figures emerged as alleged patrons of about 1,200 extortionists. Experts called for dismantling illegal economic structures, ensuring transparency and accountability in urban management, strengthening the rule of law, and conducting impartial investigations and trials in every killing.