Court orders investigation into Meghna Alam's devices for anti-state content

In a case filed over allegations of fraud and extortion, a Dhaka court has ordered an investigation into whether Model and former Miss Earth Bangladesh winner Meghna Alam's mobile phones and laptop contain any anti-state content.

The directive was issued by Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate M A Azharul Islam following a hearing today morning (29 July).

Meghna Alam appeared in court around 11am to request the return of her seized passport, iPhone 16 Pro, MacBook, Oppo phone, and laptop. She was seen holding a box of dates and a prayer mat while standing at the dock inside the court.

Her lawyers, Mahima Bandhan and Mohsin Reza, argued that Meghna Alam is a leadership trainer who frequently travels abroad for international events, and her devices are essential for her work. They offered to submit all necessary ownership documents for the return of the items.

However, State Prosecutor Md Harun-Or-Rashid opposed the request, stating that the case involves serious allegations. He claimed that Meghna has been involved in scamming foreign diplomats and wealthy local businessmen by luring them into romantic traps and blackmailing them. He emphasised that it's critical to examine her digital devices to uncover how many people she scammed.

Standing at the dock, Meghna responded, "I had professional relations with various diplomats. The Saudi ambassador himself tried to trap me romantically, and I have proof."

The judge interrupted, stating that such comments were not relevant at this stage of the hearing.

Meghna continued, claiming, "Bangladesh's global image depends on me. I've worked with 10 international organisations across six continents and actively promote women's rights. I need my MacBook, laptop, mobile, and passport returned."

In response, the state prosecutor argued, "Her work with women is detailed in the case—she used women to blackmail others."

When Meghna protested, saying the statement disrespected diplomats, a heated argument ensued between the two sides. She concluded by asserting, "I'm still innocent until proven guilty."

After hearing both sides, the court ordered an investigation to determine if any anti-state material is present on Meghna Alam's seized devices. The judge also instructed authorities to verify her ownership of the devices and submit a report by 31 August.

Case background

According to the case documents, Meghna Alam, Dewan Samir, and 2-3 unidentified individuals are part of an organised fraud syndicate. The group allegedly used attractive young women to entrap foreign diplomats and wealthy businessmen in Bangladesh, establishing illicit relationships and later extorting large sums of money through threats of public humiliation.

Dewan Samir is identified as the CEO of "Kawaii Group" and owner of a manpower agency named "Sanjana International." He was previously associated with "Mirai International Event Management Ltd.," which allegedly recruited women as brand ambassadors to gain access to elite foreign and local clients.

The conspiracy was reportedly aimed at bolstering Samir's businesses through unethical means, including targeting diplomats for extortion.

Previously, on 10 April, Meghna was detained for 30 days under the Special Powers Act but was later released. She was formally arrested on 17 April in connection with this case, and on April 28, she was granted bail.