Businessman critically injured in Khulna shooting; police launch investigation into extortion and criminal ties

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A 35-year-old businessman was critically wounded in a targeted shooting in the Gollamari area of Khulna late Sunday night. The victim, Rafiqul Islam, was sitting outside his scrap metal business near the Ideal Nursing Home around 10:00 p.m. when he was approached by two or three unidentified assailants who opened fire, striking him in the abdomen.

Local residents rushed the victim to Khulna Medical College Hospital. Due to the severity of his injuries, medical staff transferred him to a facility in Dhaka for advanced treatment. Rafiqul, a resident of the city’s M.A. Bari Road area, is the son of Rustum Ali.

Authorities at the Sonadanga Police Station have launched an investigation to identify and apprehend the suspects. While officials confirmed that the victim has a prior record involving narcotics-related cases, his family alleges that the attack was motivated by an unresolved extortion demand. According to the victim’s relatives, an individual recently demanded money from Rafiqul, though the threat was not reported to the police at the time.

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Investigating officers stated that they are exploring multiple motives, including personal vendettas, extortion, and potential links to organized criminal syndicates operating within the city. Police are also examining whether the attack is connected to broader regional conflicts over the control of illegal drug and arms trades.

This incident marks another escalation in violence within Khulna, a city currently grappling with a surge in criminal activity. According to police data, 17 homicides were recorded between January and June of this year. Furthermore, law enforcement agencies have identified links between various criminal groups and 34 separate killings reported following recent political instability in the country. Security officials noted that these crimes are primarily driven by turf wars between rival gangs, systemic extortion, and the struggle for dominance over illicit economies.