A BNP leader in Cox’s Bazar has sparked outrage after allegedly extorting Tk 200,000 from an Awami League woman leader, swearing on the Holy Quran to “protect” her. A video of the incident involving Nuruddin Khan, general secretary of Ward 1 (East) BNP, has gone viral.

The victim, Rozina Akhter, said she initially believed Khan would help her but was later threatened with murder and arson if she refused to pay more money.

Khan, who faces long-standing allegations of human trafficking, attacks on police, and extortion, denied the charges, claiming he is a community arbitrator and the victim of conspiracy. However, BNP insiders admitted that the incident has embarrassed party members nationwide.