Home ministry official among 2 arrested over fraud in postings, transfers
A complaint by Kamrul Hasan, assistant private secretary to the home minister, filed with the DMP chief prompted the probe.
The Detective Branch (DB) has arrested two members of an organised fraud ring accused of illegally collecting money by promising government officials desired transfers and promotions using the names of the home and other ministries.
The arrested are M Aminur Rahman Shanto, 44, and Nilufa Sultana, 56, who serves as a personal officer at the Discipline Branch 2 of the home ministry, DB chief Md Shafiqul Islam said during a press briefing today (22 May).
He said Kamrul Hasan, assistant private secretary to the home minister, filed a written complaint with the Dhaka Metropolitan Police chief on Wednesday (20 May).
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Afterwards, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police commissioner instructed the DB to investigate the matter and take necessary legal action, Shafiqul added.
According to the complaint, an individual has been contacting ministry officials through WhatsApp, claiming he can arrange transfers and promotions, while using the names of various ministries.
Intelligence information also suggested that the person has contacted officials regarding illegal financial transactions linked to postings of senior ministry officials.
The complaint further stated that the accused has claimed, through WhatsApp messages, to have the capacity to carry out various activities under ministries.
Following the complaint, the Social Media Crime Investigation Team of the DB Cyber and Special Crime (North) Division launched a covert investigation.
Based on the findings, detectives conducted a raid at a residence in West Rampura under the jurisdiction of Hatirjheel Police Station at around 9:30pm on Wednesday and arrested the alleged mastermind, Shanto.
Mobile phones and SIM cards allegedly used in the fraud were seized during the operation.
DB chief Shafiqul said Shanto confessed to his involvement during preliminary interrogation.
Analysis of his WhatsApp messages later revealed the involvement of another member of the ring, he added.
Police subsequently arrested Nilufa, a personal officer at the home ministry, for her alleged involvement with the syndicate, Shafiqul stated.
Shafiqul added that a case has been filed at Ramna Police Station on charges of fraud and breach of trust, noting that the investigation is ongoing.
