LPG operators condemn attack on Smart Group chairman's residence

The LPG Operators Association of Bangladesh (LOAB) has urged the authorities to take immediate and effective measures to identify and arrest those responsible for what they described as an "armed extortion attack" on the residence of Smart Group Chairman Mostafizur Rahman on Sirajuddoula Road in Chattogram city on 2 January.

In a letter sent to the inspector general of police (IGP) today (7 January), LOAB President Amirul Haque described the incident as "deeply distressing and condemnable", warning that such attacks pose a serious threat to the country's investment climate and overall business confidence.

"Mostafizur Rahman is one of the country's leading industrialists, with significant investments in the readymade garment, pharmaceutical, LPG, chemical and media sectors," the letter added.

"An attack of this nature on him and his family not only threatens individual safety but also undermines confidence in trade, industry and investment."

The LOAB president cautioned that if similar incidents continue, members of the business community may feel increasingly insecure, potentially discouraging investment and negatively affecting production and economic stability.

According to the letter, several armed assailants reportedly attacked the Smart Group chairman's residence, firing gunshots that shattered window panes and caused panic among local residents.

Prior to the attack, unidentified criminals had allegedly contacted the mobile phone of Smart Group's managing director, demanding a large sum of money as extortion.

In light of the incident, LOAB called on the IGP to issue necessary directives to law enforcement agencies to ensure a swift and impartial investigation and the arrest of those involved.

The association also urged the authorities to strengthen security measures in industrial zones, commercial hubs and key residential areas, alongside enhanced intelligence surveillance, to prevent similar incidents in the future.