Dhaka police have uncovered a clandestine factory producing counterfeit iPhones, reportedly operated under the leadership of Chinese nationals. Investigations reveal that the syndicate had been illegally importing iPhone components from abroad, assembling them in secret, and selling the devices on the market disguised as genuine Apple products. Preliminary inquiries indicate that this illicit operation had been ongoing for approximately eighteen months.
On Wednesday, 7 January, the Detective Branch (DB) of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) conducted simultaneous raids in Sector 17 of Uttara and Nikunja-1. The operations led to the arrest of three suspects. Authorities seized a total of 363 mobile phones, various iPhone components, and assembly machinery.
Speaking at a press conference at the DMP Media Centre on Thursday, 8 January, Mirpur Division’s Deputy Commissioner Mahmud Suhel provided further details. He said, “Based on confidential intelligence, we targeted two specific locations. The raids were successful, resulting in both arrests and significant seizures.”
Key details of the operation are summarised in the table below:
| Location | Number of Arrests | Mobile Devices Seized | Other Items Seized |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uttara-17 | 1 | 58 iPhones | iPhone components, assembly machines |
| Nikunja-1 | 2 | 305 mobile phones | iPhone components, assembly machines, imported liquor |
Deputy Commissioner Suhel explained that the syndicate imported iPhone components separately and assembled them in hidden laboratories within Dhaka. “The counterfeit devices were designed to resemble authentic iPhones and sold to unsuspecting customers,” he said.
He added, “Over the past eighteen months, a substantial number of fake iPhones have entered the market. Local collaborators may also be involved, but their identities will remain undisclosed until the investigation is complete.”
The Detective Branch has urged the public to exercise caution when purchasing mobile phones. “Many buyers fall victim to fraud while attempting to purchase genuine iPhones. We advise consumers to buy only from authorised showrooms or trusted sources,” Suhel warned.
Legal proceedings against the arrested individuals are underway. Police have also pledged to continue operations aimed at dismantling networks involved in the illegal production and sale of counterfeit electronics.