In Fatulla, Narayanganj, a husband and wife have been arrested for printing and distributing fraudulent ‘Family Cards’ under the guise of a political manifesto, reportedly linked to BNP Chairman . The couple allegedly exploited the name of the party’s election pledges to defraud local residents.

The accused, identified as Rasel, also known as Zilani, and his wife Hasina, were apprehended on Monday night (16 February) with a substantial number of illegally printed cards in their possession.

According to victims, the couple began distributing the fake cards immediately after the national parliamentary elections, targeting areas including Narsingpur, Bakultala, Char Kashipur, and Middle Narsingpur in Kashipur Union.

Presenting themselves as BNP activists, Rasel and Hasina operated under the banner of a company named ‘Zisan Traders’, selling the counterfeit cards to vulnerable women in exchange for BDT 50 per card. The fraudulent scheme promised cardholders monthly supplies of essential goods—including rice, lentils, cooking oil, and meat—valued at BDT 1,285 per month, particularly timed to coincide with the upcoming holy month of Ramadan.

On Monday morning, the couple was expected to distribute the first batch of supplies to cardholders. However, by midday, none of the promised goods had been delivered, prompting the victims to realise they had been deceived. In protest, the affected women gathered at Rasel’s residence, surrounding the property and demanding accountability.

One of the victims, Zulekha Begum, said, “We were told these cards were being officially issued by a company. We waited from 10 a.m. onwards, but no cards were delivered. When we tried contacting them, our calls went unanswered.”

The Fatulla Thana BNP President, Shahidul Islam Titu, clarified, “I do not know Rasel, also called Zilani. He is not a member of our party. Whoever is selling these family cards is undoubtedly a fraudster. He must be handed over to the law. We will not allow the party’s reputation to be tarnished.”

Narayanganj Sadar Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) S.M. Foyez Uddin confirmed the arrests, stating that the Fatulla Model Police seized a significant number of illegal family cards and that appropriate legal action would be taken against the couple.

Key Details of the Case

Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any further attempts to distribute fraudulent cards, particularly during the festive season.