CID Arrests Haridas Over Money Laundering Case

Haridas Chandra Tarani Das, a controversial figure from Palashbari in Bangladesh’s Gaibandha district who has drawn public attention in connection with a widely discussed idol-related controversy, has been arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). The arrest was confirmed on Monday morning by Palashbari Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Sarwar Alam Khan.

According to police, a specialised CID team from Dhaka conducted the operation at around 11:30 p.m. on Sunday and took Haridas into custody. The operation was carried out with assistance from Palashbari police before he was transferred to Dhaka for further legal proceedings.

OC Sarwar Alam Khan said the arrest was made in connection with a money laundering case registered at Uttara West Police Station in the capital. He stated that the CID team assumed custody of the suspect under the authority of that case and subsequently transported him to Dhaka for investigation.

The police official also alleged that Haridas had remained a controversial figure in the area for a considerable period because of various activities. According to the OC, allegations have been raised that he repeatedly exploited religious sentiments to deceive people. Those allegations, along with financial matters linked to the ongoing investigation, are now being examined by the relevant authorities.

This is not the first time Haridas has faced legal action. Police records indicate that he was previously arrested by the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) on 8 November 2022 in a case involving allegations of fraud, impersonation and financial misconduct. Investigators at the time accused him of posing as senior government officials and ministers to influence transfers, manipulate tender processes and fraudulently obtain large sums of money.

According to the information provided by police, Haridas later secured bail in that case but subsequently absconded. Authorities allege that after returning to the country following the mass uprising, he once again became involved in activities that generated public controversy. Police claim he used religious issues, including matters relating to idols, to carry out fraudulent schemes, although those allegations remain subject to investigation.

Police also stated that Haridas had previously changed his religion and adopted the name Tawhid Islam. During that period, he reportedly married a woman identified as Sumi Islam. Investigators have not indicated whether these personal details have any direct connection with the current money laundering case.

The CID is now continuing its investigation into the financial allegations while also reviewing previous case records and other complaints associated with the suspect. Officials said evidence gathered during the inquiry will determine what further legal action, if any, will be taken.

The latest arrest has once again drawn attention in Palashbari, where Haridas has remained a familiar and controversial figure for several years. Authorities have emphasised that the investigation is ongoing and that all allegations will be examined in accordance with the law before any conclusions are reached.