A coordinated operation by the Detective Branch (DB) of the police has dismantled an organised online gambling network operating in Pirganj Upazila under Rangpur, leading to the arrest of eight individuals and the seizure of a significant cache of electronic equipment used in illicit gaming activities.
The raid was conducted in the early hours of Tuesday (19 May) at a residential property located near Madarganj Market in Mithipur Union, close to Madrasah Mor area. Acting on confidential intelligence, a specialised DB team placed the premises under surveillance before launching the operation. Once inside the building, officers confirmed the presence of an active online casino setup and detained all eight suspects on the spot.
According to police officials, the group had been running a sophisticated digital gambling operation using online platforms, targeting participants from different parts of the country. Transactions were reportedly conducted through mobile financial channels, enabling the syndicate to operate discreetly over a prolonged period.
Following the raid, police recovered a range of devices believed to have been used in running the illegal network.
Seized Items
| Category | Description | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Computing equipment | Laptop | 1 |
| Computing equipment | Computer monitors | 2 |
| Computing equipment | CPU unit | 1 |
| Mobile devices | Smartphones | 13 |
| Telecom materials | SIM cards | 26 |
Authorities believe these tools were central to managing accounts, facilitating bets, and communicating with participants involved in the gambling ring.
Confirming the development on Wednesday (20 May), Mohammad Mozammel Haque stated that the arrested individuals have been charged under relevant sections of the Cyber Security Ordinance 2025. He further noted that several other members of the syndicate have been identified but remain at large.
Police investigations suggest that the network had been operating for some time, exploiting digital platforms to run casino-style gambling activities. Officials also indicated that individuals from various regions were being recruited into the system, often lured by the promise of quick financial gain.
Law enforcement agencies have expressed concern over the growing prevalence of online gambling networks, which they describe as an emerging cybercrime threat affecting young people in particular. According to police statements, intensified monitoring and regular raids are being carried out to curb such activities across the region.
The investigation remains ongoing, with efforts underway to trace the absconding suspects and dismantle the wider network believed to be operating beyond the immediate locality.
Bangladesh Police has reiterated its commitment to continuing operations against cyber-enabled gambling and related offences, stressing that further arrests are expected as the inquiry progresses.