Widespread allegations of extortion and immoral activities have surfaced at Sheikh Russel Children’s Park in Tungipara, Gopalganj, the only family entertainment center in the area. Locals claim the park has fallen under the control of a gang of miscreants, causing concern among visitors.

The primary individual accused of orchestrating the extortion and harassment is Yunus Sheikh (22) from Sardarpara, Patgati. According to local sources, Yunus and his group frequently loiter in the park, targeting female visitors for harassment and extortion. Night guards Saiful Islam and Aminul Islam have reported facing threats when attempting to intervene, and the gang is also accused of stealing park property.

Allegations state that on July 2 and 3, Yunus Sheikh held a teenage girl inside the park for two consecutive days. Police rescued the girl, but Yunus fled the scene. Yunus defended himself, claiming, “She is my girlfriend, and we were sitting in the park willingly. People who are hostile toward me are falsely accusing me.” However, Sub-Inspector Nazmul of Tungipara Police Station noted, “The girl was brought to the station and later released after the family agreed to arrange a marriage between her and Yunus.”

The incident has sparked fear and anger among Tungipara’s residents and regular park visitors, many of whom are now reluctant to visit with their families due to concerns over women’s safety. In response, Shahinuzzaman, the acting engineer of Tungipara Municipality, stated, “Some local youths may have entered the park by scaling the wall. A proposal to raise the boundary wall has been submitted, and measures will be taken soon.”

The concerned community is demanding immediate action, including strict legal measures against the extortion ring, installation of CCTV cameras and adequate lighting, formation of a regular patrol and security team, and assurance of a family-friendly environment. Citizens emphasize that such immoral activities are unacceptable in a park built for children in the birthplace of Bangabandhu, calling for urgent and effective action to restore the reputation and safety of Sheikh Russel Children’s Park.