Dhaka, Feb. 23 -- Extortion in the business sector surged by 20 to 50 percent during the tenure of the previous interim government after the fall of the Awami League government, Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) President Taskeen Ahmed has alleged.

He made the claim during a press conference at the chamber's office in Motijheel on Monday.

Responding to queries about the extortionists, Taskeen alleged that ruling party members, police, and revenue officials are among the key actors in the extortion business.

"They come and claim to be from the ruling party. Whoever is in power, people show up claiming government affiliation and demand tolls for local events or under other pretexts," he said.

The DCCI chief noted that corrup...