Biman MD Arrested Over Domestic Worker Abuse

Police have arrested Safiqul Rahman, the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, following allegations of abuse against a domestic worker. The arrest took place on Sunday night at his residence in Uttara Sector 9, Dhaka, according to law enforcement officials.

Speaking to the press, Kazi Rafique Ahmed, Officer-in-Charge of Uttara West Police Station, confirmed that the MD was taken into custody under the Prevention of Child Abuse Act, 2000. “The accused has been formally presented before the court following the filing of a complaint concerning child abuse,” he stated.

According to police sources, a young domestic worker had been employed at Rahman’s residence for an extended period. Allegedly, the child suffered repeated physical and mental abuse at his hands. After the child’s family lodged a formal complaint with the authorities, police acted swiftly to detain Rahman.

Key Details of the Case

Reports suggest that the domestic worker is a minor, approximately 12 years old, and had endured persistent mistreatment for months. Police have coordinated with child protection organisations to ensure the child receives proper care and counselling.

The arrest has sparked widespread media attention and public concern. Legal experts emphasise the importance of adhering strictly to the provisions of the Child Abuse Prevention Act, arguing that such high-profile cases must be handled with transparency to safeguard vulnerable children.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. Meanwhile, child rights organisations have condemned the abuse, urging the government to take stringent measures against all forms of violence targeting minors. They emphasise the need for rapid investigation and prosecution to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Following the arrest, Rahman was placed under police supervision, with the judiciary monitoring the ongoing investigation. Authorities have pledged a thorough and impartial inquiry, stating that appropriate legal action will follow once investigations conclude.

This case has reignited national conversations about child labour and domestic worker protection in Bangladesh, highlighting gaps in enforcement and the need for stricter safeguards to prevent abuse within private households.