CID arrests 6, including key suspect in Tk600cr NGO-linked fraud scheme in Naogaon
The prime accused is identified as Md Nazim Uddin Tonu, is allegedly the director of a local NGO named Bondhu Mitali Foundation located in Officepara of Naogaon sadar upazila
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Naogaon district unit today (19 November) arrested six individuals, including the alleged mastermind behind an NGO-linked fraud scheme that embezzled nearly Tk600 crore from clients by luring them with promises of high returns.
The prime accused is identified as Md Nazim Uddin Tonu, 37, who is allegedly the director of a local NGO named Bondhu Mitali Foundation located in Officepara of Naogaon sadar upazila.
The CID's LIC unit arrested him this morning from Dhaka's Dakshinkhan area using intelligence analysis and modern technology, while he was hiding in the area, says a press release from the CID.
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According to the case statement, the complainant and many other members had registered with an NGO named Bondhu Mitali Foundation for savings deposits, monthly DPS schemes and one-time loans.
Many others had also deposited money as one-time investments. Clients reportedly received Tk2,000 as monthly profit against deposits of Tk1 lakh.
The complainant had deposited Tk20 lakh with the organisation, while total deposits from other victims amounted to around Tk150 crore, according to the case.
Meanwhile, the NGO regularly facilitated withdrawals, deposits and other transactions.
Investigation found that the organisation initially paid the promised monthly returns to a selected group of clients designated by the directors. Once the scheme was widely promoted to ordinary people, mostly from low-income backgrounds, they began investing in large numbers.
From August 2024, the organisation's financial activities reportedly became opaque. Victims reported being unable to withdraw their deposits or loan funds. When complaints were raised, Tonu sought time from clients.
In November 2024, when depositors, including the complainant, again demanded their money back at the NGO's office, the authorities allegedly delayed, made excuses and eventually forced them out, stating they would not receive any funds.
Later on 12 November 2024, the complainant filed a case under the Penal Code,1860, with Naogaon Sadar Police Station.
Preliminary investigation suggests that more than 800 victims were defrauded of over Tk600 crore. Verification of the obtained information is underway, said CID officials.
The CID's Naogaon District Unit is currently handling the investigation to identify other suspects, uncover the full extent of the crime and complete other legal procedures.
