Three Arrested in Eid Extortion Scam

Police in Sirajganj have arrested three individuals accused of impersonating a senior police official and demanding money from local traders under the pretext of an Eid honourarium. Authorities say the suspects used a messaging platform to contact business owners and falsely present themselves as the district’s chief police officer, requesting payments ahead of the upcoming festival.

The arrests were disclosed at a press briefing held on Monday afternoon at Sirajganj Sadar Police Station. Addressing journalists, Mohammad Hafizur Rahman, Additional Superintendent of Police responsible for crime and operations, explained that the suspects had targeted traders dealing primarily in traditional clothing items such as sarees and lungis.

According to investigators, the suspects created accounts on a messaging application and approached business owners while posing as a high-ranking police official. They demanded so-called “Eid honourarium” payments, attempting to exploit the festive season when charitable and goodwill gestures are common among businesses. Some traders reportedly became suspicious after receiving repeated messages requesting financial contributions.

Law enforcement authorities launched an investigation after receiving complaints from members of the local trading community. Using digital tracking and information technology tools, investigators were able to identify the location of the suspects and conduct coordinated operations that led to their detention.

The three individuals arrested were identified as residents of areas under Sherpur Upazila. They include Sohel Mia, aged thirty-four; Badsha Akand, aged fifty; and Ripon, aged twenty-two.

During the operation, police recovered two mobile devices and a small amount of cash believed to be linked to the fraudulent activity. Officials stated that the seized devices would undergo further forensic examination to determine whether additional victims had been contacted.

Key Details of the Case

During preliminary questioning, the suspects reportedly admitted that they had used the names and photographs of the district’s police leadership and other government officials to lend credibility to their demands. Authorities believe the tactic was intended to pressure traders into sending money quickly without verifying the identity of the sender.

Police officials warned business owners and members of the public to remain cautious when receiving financial requests through messaging applications or social media accounts. They urged individuals to verify such requests directly with the relevant authorities before making any payment.

The suspects are expected to face formal charges under laws relating to fraud and impersonation. Investigators are also examining whether the group was involved in similar scams elsewhere in the region.