Dhaka: The Detective Branch (DB) of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has arrested three Chinese nationals and one Bangladeshi woman for allegedly operating an online gambling, fraud and illegal Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) network from a residence in Bashundhara Residential Area of the Bangladeshi capital.
The arrests were made during a raid based on intelligence inputs, with investigators claiming the group was running a sophisticated cybercrime operation targeting victims through fraudulent online schemes.
Large Quantity of Electronic Equipment Seized
During the operation, police recovered a significant cache of electronic devices and other items, including:
- 14 laptops
- 16 smartphones
- More than 6,000 active SIM cards
- 20 SIM gateway devices
- 26 bottles of foreign liquor
- Tk 209,700 in cash
Officials believe the seized equipment was being used to facilitate online fraud, gambling operations and illegal telecommunications activities.
Alleged Fraud Through Fake Job Offers
According to investigators, the accused allegedly used promotional SMS messages containing fake job and income opportunities to lure unsuspecting victims.
Victims were reportedly redirected through embedded links and persuaded to participate in fraudulent investment or online earning schemes.
Police are examining digital evidence to identify additional victims and determine the scale of the alleged operation.
Illegal VoIP and Advanced Gateway Technology
Investigators also allege that the group operated an illegal VoIP network, enabling internet-based communications outside authorised telecom channels.
Authorities said the suspects allegedly used advanced SIM gateway technology, allowing a single mobile device to simultaneously operate up to 12 SIM cards, making communications significantly more difficult for law enforcement agencies to trace.
Officials believe this technology was used to support both fraudulent activities and illegal telecommunications operations.
Investigation Underway
Police are analysing the seized laptops, smartphones and communication equipment to determine the full extent of the alleged network, including possible international links and financial transactions.
Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests as the investigation progresses.
The case highlights growing concerns over the misuse of advanced communication technology by organised cybercrime groups operating across borders, with law enforcement agencies continuing efforts to dismantle such networks.