A coordinated enforcement operation has been carried out at Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) to curb the activities of an organised broker group allegedly involved in harassing patients and facilitating fraudulent referrals. The joint drive was conducted on Monday morning (4 May) by the National Security Intelligence (NSI), police personnel, and executive magistrates.
During the operation, a total of 45 individuals were detained from different areas of the hospital premises. Those detained include members of the alleged broker group as well as representatives of pharmaceutical companies. Following their detention, they were transported to Shahbagh Police Station in prison vans for further processing.
According to officials, the drive was initiated in response to long-standing allegations that certain broker networks were active within and around the hospital. These groups were reportedly involved in influencing patients to seek treatment in private facilities, contributing to harassment and irregularities affecting public service access. Authorities stated that the objective of the operation was to ensure uninterrupted medical services and reduce patient exploitation within the hospital environment.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) of the Ramna Division, Masud Alam, confirmed that the operation was conducted jointly by NSI, police, and executive magistrates. He noted that such coordinated drives had been carried out previously as well, but the current operation involved a more active role from NSI in intelligence support and execution.
He further stated that among the 45 detainees, five were women. In addition, approximately 18 to 19 individuals were identified as representatives of pharmaceutical companies. Under standard regulations, medical representatives are permitted to visit hospitals on designated days—Monday and Thursday—with entry allowed after 12 noon. However, during the operation, several representatives were found to be present on the premises before the permitted time, prompting verification of their activities.
Authorities also indicated that pharmaceutical representatives found in breach of regulations may be released upon providing written undertakings (bond/mutual assurance) to comply with hospital rules in the future. However, individuals identified as part of the broker network, along with others involved in irregular activities, will face legal proceedings through mobile courts.
Summary of detainees
| Category | Number of individuals |
|---|---|
| Total detained | 45 |
| Female detainees | 5 |
| Pharmaceutical representatives | 18–19 |
| Broker-related and others | Remaining persons |
Officials reiterated that such enforcement activities are part of ongoing efforts to regulate hospital surroundings and prevent unauthorised intermediaries from interfering with patient services. Further legal and administrative actions will be determined following verification and investigation by the concerned authorities.