Law enforcement authorities have seized assets worth over BDT 76 million from Monirul Islam, who stands accused of orchestrating a sophisticated online fraud scheme targeting elderly individuals through Facebook. The seizure was carried out under the supervision of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and sanctioned by the Senior Special Judge of Dhaka Metropolitan Sessions Court.
According to a press release issued on Thursday by Jasim Uddin Khan, CID’s Special Superintendent of Police (Media), Monirul systematically exploited social media to defraud vulnerable users. Using multiple fabricated identities, he cultivated trust with his victims, presenting himself at times as a renowned doctor, a college principal, or even an official affiliated with the Prime Minister’s Office.
In a particularly manipulative tactic, Monirul reportedly impersonated a female voice over the phone, claiming that his parents were gravely ill. He would then solicit loans or financial assistance from unsuspecting individuals. Once he received the funds, he would immediately sever contact, often turning off his phone to evade detection.
Investigations revealed that Monirul employed not only his own bank accounts but also opened mobile financial service accounts under other individuals’ national IDs to facilitate the transfer of large sums. He used the illicit proceeds to acquire prime real estate in Dhaka: a 7.5% plot of land in Amulia Model Town, Demra, valued at BDT 933,000, and a 2,150-square-foot apartment in Darussalam, worth BDT 4,225,000.
On 8 February 2023, the CID filed a case against Monirul under the Money Laundering Prevention Act (Case No. 17) at Badda Police Station. The complaint specifically cited the misappropriation of BDT 2,474,000 via Facebook scams. Upon uncovering evidence of property acquisition with illicit funds, the CID petitioned the court for asset confiscation, which was subsequently approved.
The Financial Crime Unit of CID continues to investigate the case, focusing on tracing additional illegally obtained assets and potential co-conspirators. Authorities warn the public to remain vigilant against social media fraud and to verify identities before transferring money online.
Summary of Monirul Islam’s Illicit Assets:
| Property Location | Type of Asset | Size / Area | Documented Value (BDT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amulia Model Town, Demra | Land Plot | 7.5% plot | 933,000 |
| Darussalam, Dhaka | Apartment | 2,150 sq. ft. | 4,225,000 |
| Total Assets Seized | — | — | 7,632,000 |
The case underscores the growing threat of online fraud in Bangladesh, highlighting the need for increased digital literacy and robust cybercrime enforcement.