Seven accused including content creator
Businessman Abduction Sparks Social Media Blackmail Probe
- Businessman allegedly abducted from court premises.
- Family reportedly paid ransom after threats.
- Police investigating alleged online blackmail network.
A case has been filed against seven individuals, with content creator Masud Rana Babul named as the prime accused, over allegations of abducting a businessman from the Narsingdi court premises, assaulting him, and extorting ransom from his family. Police said the accused are currently absconding.
According to the complaint, businessman Likhon Talukdar appeared before the Narsingdi court on July 8 in connection with a cheque-related case. After leaving the court, he was allegedly forced into a room by a group led by Masud Rana Babul.
The victim alleged that he was physically assaulted and forced to pay a ransom of Tk 1 million. When he refused, the accused allegedly used his mobile phone to call his wife, allowing her to hear the assault while threatening to kill him unless the money was paid.
The case also names Kamal Sarkar, Kamal Bhuiyan, Abu Hanif Sajib, Insan, Sharif, and Mosharaf Hossain as co-accused.
Investigation-related sources alleged that Masud Rana Babul has long operated multiple social media platforms used to intimidate businesspeople, professionals, lawyers, and political figures through online blackmail. Multiple criminal cases, including extortion, abduction, and online harassment, have reportedly been filed against him.
Local sources further alleged the existence of an organized "honey trap" network operating since 2012, using Messenger, IMO, and WhatsApp video calls to collect compromising materials and demand money by threatening online exposure. Police have not independently confirmed these allegations, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Attempts to contact Masud Rana Babul by phone for comment were unsuccessful as his mobile phone was switched off.
Officer-in-Charge A R M Al Mamun of Narsingdi Model Police Station confirmed that a case had been filed against seven individuals and legal action is underway.
Narsingdi Superintendent of Police Abdullah Al Faruq said the incident is under review and legal action will be taken based on the investigation findings.
//DBTech/JNN/MI//
