Dhaka, July 28 (NationPress) The student organization in Bangladesh that was at the forefront of last year's violent protests has declared a halt to all of its local committees nationwide, with the exception of the Central Committee. This decision comes amid serious allegations of extortion against some of its members, according to reports from local media on Monday.

During a press conference held in Dhaka on Sunday evening, President of Students Against Discrimination (SAD), Rifat Rashid, stated, "We have witnessed multiple incidents, including one that occurred yesterday (Saturday), where certain individuals misused the SAD banner for immoral activities. We had given clear warnings that such behavior would not be accepted."

Rashid lamented, "Regrettably, under the influence of political factions, a few members have engaged in corrupt acts, which have now become exceedingly difficult for us to manage," as reported by The Daily Star, a prominent Bangladeshi newspaper.

This announcement follows the recent arrest of five individuals, including SAD leaders and activists, by Bangladeshi law enforcement for purportedly extorting money from the family of former Awami League lawmaker Shammi Ahmed at her residence in Gulshan, Dhaka.

According to police, the group, which claimed affiliation with SAD, demanded 50 lakh Bangladeshi taka on July 17. Although Shammi was not at her home at that time, they sought the money from her husband, who paid 10 lakh taka on the same day.

The police apprehended the group on Saturday as they returned to collect the remaining 40 lakh from the residence.

On Sunday, Umama Fatema, a former SAD leader, raised concerns that those arrested had a reputation for their "unruly behavior" and were closely linked with the leaders of last year's anti-discrimination movement.

"These individuals have long been seen providing protocol for the leaders—ranging from the Secretariat to various processions, meetings, and clashes, acting as the coordinators' right-hand and left-hand men, moving freely without restrictions. It's quite absurd for people to act surprised; this is simply the first time they have been apprehended for their actions," she remarked in a social media post.

Numerous past allegations of misconduct involving SAD members have surfaced, as reported by local media.

In May, student activists in the Mirpur area of Dhaka reportedly detained a contractor at their office, searched his phone, and demanded 5 crore taka.

Additionally, in March, police arrested 14 individuals, including a SAD coordinator, for allegedly robbing Kabico Limited in Kalabagan and stealing 3 lakh along with four computers.

These student leaders previously collaborated with Yunus and several political groups to unseat the democratically elected Awami League government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Since the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government took control following Sheikh Hasina's ousting, Bangladesh has been experiencing significant lawlessness.