Kidnapped businessman rescued in Chattogram; six held including former army and RAB members

A kidnapped businessman has been rescued in Chattogram. Six people, including a former army member and a former RAB member, have been detained in connection with the incident, it has been learned.

The businessman was rescued in an operation by law enforcement agencies after the kidnapping. He has been handed over to his family after the rescue, it has been learned, although details of his physical condition were not available.

Among the six detained are a former army member and a former RAB member, it has been learned — which has made the incident even more sensational. Allegations of former law enforcement members being involved in crime have created fresh concern.

Details of the motive for the kidnapping and whether a ransom was demanded were not immediately available. Officials said these matters may become clear during interrogation of the detained persons.

The port city of Chattogram is the country's main commercial centre. Incidents of kidnapping and extortion targeting businessmen have happened here before, creating concern in the business community about security.

Business organisations have long demanded that the safety of traders be ensured. Although they expressed relief at the quick rescue of the kidnapped businessman and the detention of the accused, stakeholders have demanded strict measures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.

Legal proceedings against the detained persons are under way. They may be produced before a court with a remand request, it has been learned, so that it can be established whether anyone else was involved in the kidnapping.

Investigators say more people may be involved with this gang. Efforts are under way to identify the entire gang through interrogation of the detainees and analysis of information.

The names of former force members surfacing in a serious crime such as kidnapping has also sparked discussion at the administrative level. Relevant officials have spoken of increasing surveillance to prevent such incidents.

Family members of the rescued businessman have expressed gratitude to law enforcement, it has been learned. A charge sheet will be submitted against the accused after the investigation of the case is completed.