The Tyranny of Fake Journalist Hannan Rahim: Fraud, Extortion, and Drug Syndicate Under the Mask of Journalism in Chattogram

Md. Kamal Uddin    |    ১১:০৭ পিএম, ২০২৫-১০-২৯

— By Saiful Islam

The journalist community of Chattogram now faces a grim reality — a man who has long worn the sacred mask of journalism to commit crimes, deception, and grand-scale extortion. His name is Hannan Rahim Talukdar, locally known as “Chora Hannan” (the sly Hannan). Once involved in small-scale CNG business and token sales, he now claims to be a renowned journalist — even a newspaper editor and television chairman. His horrifying tale of deception is now the talk of the town among journalists in Chattogram. Locals once knew him as a “man of the dark alleys,” but now he walks around as a “media man” — holding a boom mic, wearing an ID card, and donning a jacket labeled Press. Yet, in truth, he has no connection with journalism — no post in any recognized paper, no press club membership, and no government registration in his name.

Fraud Behind the Mask of Journalism

Hannan Rahim built his fake identity entirely on forged documents. Sometimes he introduces himself as the editor of Dainik Chattogram Sangbad, and other times as the chairman of CSTV24. But investigations reveal that neither of these organizations have any legal existence — no registration with the Department of Information, nor any approval from the Press Council. Still, using these fake logos, online banners, ID cards, and “Press” stickers, he roams around the city pretending to be a journalist.

Local sources claim that from New Bridge to Anwara, around 30 CNG auto-rickshaws operate under his name. His team collects several lakhs of taka every month through token sales and extortion from drivers. Threatening hotels, restaurants, and shops — warning them that “a report will be published” — has become his daily routine.

Arrested but Unrepentant

When his fraudulent activities came to light earlier, on the order of Chattogram Metropolitan Police Commissioner Hasib Aziz, Chandgaon Police Station’s OC Aftab Uddin arrested him in an extortion case. After spending a month in jail, he was released on bail and promised to reform. But the opposite happened — after release, Chora Hannan became even more reckless, rebuilding his extortion syndicate with his old associates. The local journalist community has expressed outrage over his actions. Officials from the Chattogram Press Club and Journalists’ Union confirmed, “No person named Hannan Rahim has ever been our member; he is deceiving society under the guise of journalism.”

Extortion and Intimidation Tactics

Through his fraudulent identity, Hannan Rahim has harassed not only businessmen but also ordinary citizens. He often invoked police names to intimidate people. Allegations suggest deep ties between him and several influential politicians and drug dealers. At one point, Satkania-based journalist Akkas Ali caught him red-handed and handed him over to the police. Yet, through money and influence, he quickly managed to secure bail.

A senior member of the Chattogram Press Club said, “We have officially identified Hannan Rahim as a fake journalist. His fraudulent acts in the name of journalism disgrace our profession.”

Personal Scandal and Drug Network

Hannan Rahim also bears stains in his personal life. He allegedly developed an illicit relationship with a married woman from the Bahaddarhat area and started living with her. Currently, he is known to be a close associate of Majedul Islam, a notorious yaba dealer from the Oxygen area. Local sources report that together they run an active drug and extortion ring, earning massive sums through both trades.

A law enforcement officer commented, “We are monitoring the group closely. Once sufficient evidence is gathered, strict legal action will follow.”

The “Search Drama” at Popular Guest House and Viral Video

On June 5, a shocking incident unfolded at the Popular Guest House in the city. Claiming to be a journalist, Hannan Rahim entered guests’ rooms with a camera and boom mic, interrogating them one by one.

The video shows him asking indecent questions about a couple’s private life and violating their privacy. He himself uploaded the footage on social media, triggering a wave of nationwide outrage. From journalists to ordinary citizens, all condemned his shameless behavior.

OC Aftab Uddin said, “What happened at Popular Guest House in the name of journalism was completely illegal. A case of extortion has been filed against Hannan Rahim, and investigation is ongoing. He already has three prior cases.”

Dark Past

Records show that on January 9, 2006, a case under the Speedy Trial Act was filed against Hannan Rahim at Anwara Police Station. On April 20, 2017, another case involving assault, theft, and attempted murder was registered at Chandgaon Police Station. In 2021, a complaint case was lodged against him at the Senior Judicial Magistrate Court. All cases carry the same charges — fraud, intimidation, and land-grabbing.

Journalists’ Anger and Demand for Action

Chattogram Press Club President Salahuddin Reza stated firmly, “There has never been a member by that name in our club, nor will there ever be. He is destroying the dignity of journalism.”
Chattogram Union of Journalists’ General Secretary Sabur Shuvo added, “Hannan Rahim built his identity entirely through deception. His actions are a deep insult to our profession.”

How Much Longer Will Journalism Suffer Such Humiliation?

Journalism is a noble profession — founded on truth, justice, and service to the people. But fraudsters like Hannan Rahim are staining its reputation. Exposing such impostors is not just the duty of police; it is our collective responsibility. What is needed now is strict enforcement of law and a permanent system to identify fake journalists — so that the honor of journalism remains intact in the eyes of future generations.

To be continued…