Scammers using Cox’s Bazar DC and SP’s names to defraud people

A scam ring in Cox's Bazar has begun using the names and photographs of the district's Deputy Commissioner (DC) and Superintendent of Police (SP) to deceive the public through WhatsApp accounts opened with different mobile numbers, according to official statements from both offices.

Both the DC office and the district police have issued separate public warnings on social media, urging residents to remain alert and avoid falling victim to fraudulent activities conducted using fake profiles.

In a special alert posted yesterday afternoon from the Facebook page "DC Cox's Bazar", the message read, "Attempts are being made to commit fraud using the name and photograph of the Deputy Commissioner, Cox's Bazar. The public is advised not to be misled by such activities. Everyone is requested to remain vigilant."

The post included a screenshot showing that the fraudsters used the photograph of Cox's Bazar Deputy Commissioner Md Abdul Mannan on a WhatsApp account registered with the number 01764884390, with his name displayed below the profile image.

On Wednesday afternoon, the Facebook page of Cox's Bazar District Police issued another special alert, stating: "Using mobile number 01864901765, the name and photograph of the Superintendent of Police, Cox's Bazar, are being misused to attempt fraud. The public is strongly advised not to be deceived by such misleading activities. Everyone is requested to remain extremely vigilant."

A screenshot attached to the police post showed the SP's photo being used on the WhatsApp account linked to the mentioned number.

Authorities from both government offices confirmed that law enforcement agencies are working to identify and take action against the scammers who are impersonating these top district officials.