'Take action against extortionists'

The criminals took away money, mobile phones and other valuables from the boatmen at different spots in Gazaria, Balakirchar and Munshiganj and along the rivers Buriganga, Meghna and Dhaleshari, they said at a meeting in the city.

Even the extortionists beat up the boatmen and issued death threat if anybody refuses to pay them, but the authority remains indifferent to such acts, said the owners.

Bangladesh Bulkhead Nouzan Malik Samity organised the meeting attended by 60 representatives of its local committees across the country.

Samity Secretary General Nur Hossain Nuru presided over the meeting.

Later, a team of 25 owners called on State Minister for Labour and Employment Amanullah Aman to apprise him of their problems.