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Syed Md Bashir Uddin, president of the Moulvibazar Business Association, said traders in Old Dhaka contribute significantly to national revenue, but their safety is not ensured. “The administration is failing to protect us,” he said.

“We must now ensure our own protection. We urge the authorities to allow each shop to keep sticks for self-defence. Otherwise, just like Sohag, anyone could be killed next,” he said.

He also called on traders to unite and form resistance against extortionists.

The traders’ other demands include a proper investigation into Sohag’s murder, action against juvenile gangs, and the elimination of extortion, drugs, and crime from Old Dhaka’s commercial areas.

They said they had hoped for a safer, more disciplined business environment following the July uprising. But instead, extortion, drug abuse, and violence have been on the rise again, they added.

They called on the government to take urgent steps to restore law and order and create a secure, business-friendly environment in Old Dhaka.