On 20 September 2026, Bangladeshi online news outlet Dhaka Stream published an investigative report on the sale of Bengali translations of books by Al-Qaeda leaders and other extremist figures, including at a book fair organised by the Islamic Foundation in Dhaka.
Following publication, the outlet received threatening emails and social media messages demanding that it remove the report and issue a public apology within 12 hours, or face a cyberattack. On 22 September, Dhaka Stream filed a General Diary (GD) with Kalabagan Police Station, seeking protection for its journalists, staff and digital platforms. Police confirmed receiving the complaint and indicated that steps were being taken with the assistance of the cybercrime unit. The perpetrators’ identities remain unverified, and the available evidence does not establish that a cyberattack occurred.
The incident prompted concern among media and civil society organisations. The Online Editors Forum and Bangladesh Media Monitor condemned the threats, called for legal action against those responsible and urged authorities to ensure journalists’ safety.
The incident raises concerns about freedom of expression, media independence and digital security in Bangladesh. Threats intended to force the withdrawal of investigative reporting risk discouraging journalists from covering sensitive public-interest issues, undermining the enabling environment for independent media and the public’s right to information.