Members of Apon Small Traders Association Limited staged a human chain and protest march against its owner, Alam Hossain, who is also general secretary of Kachikata Union BNP in Monohardi, Narsingdi. They alleged that nearly Tk5 crore of members’ deposits had been embezzled. The demonstration took place on Monday afternoon outside the association’s office at Shekher Bazar in Kachikata Union, followed by a march demanding refunds and punishment for the accused.

Speakers said Alam Hossain had enrolled local people in the association by promising high profits. They said about 300 members had deposited nearly Tk5 crore, but had received no dividends for the past three years. Members also alleged they faced discourteous treatment and intimidation when seeking the return of their deposits.

The protesters further alleged that several members had been harassed through legal cases. They said their life savings were tied up in the association, causing severe financial hardship and unrest in many households. More than 100 customers, including Shafiqul Islam, Delwar Hossain Rokon, Manik Mia, Akash Mia and Mahmuda Begum, attended. Members later submitted a memorandum to Monohardi Upazila Nirbahi Officer M. A. Muhaimin Al Jihan. Alam Hossain could not be reached by phone for comment.