Moncho 24 has demanded an independent, transparent, and internationally credible investigative commission following allegations that influential Bangladeshis are connected to the international sex trafficking network unearthed in Jeffrey Epstein’s files.
The demand came during an urgent press briefing on Wednesday in front of Madhur Canteen at the University of Dhaka campus.
Moncoh 24 outlined four key demands in the briefing. These include forming an independent judicial commission to investigate Bangladeshi citizens named in international Epstein-related documents, identifying and taking exemplary action against those involved in military data leaks and body camera footage, acknowledging and swiftly correcting state failures to ensure cyber and digital security ahead of elections, and enforcing a zero-tolerance policy to protect women, children, and the general public.
Moncho 24 Convener Fahim Farooqui said international investigations, documents, and testimonies are revealing the names of powerful political and business figures linked to Epstein. He highlighted the alleged involvement of a prominent Bangladeshi politician, Abdul Awal Mintoo, calling the claims alarming and shameful for the nation.
Farooqui said, “We are not presuming anyone guilty. But when such serious allegations surface internationally, it is the state’s responsibility to ensure an independent and impartial investigation. Silence in this matter equals complicity.”
He stressed that the issue goes beyond individuals, touching the state’s morality, sovereignty, and the safety of citizens. “If any influential person is connected to an international crime network, it indicates serious weaknesses within the state apparatus,” he added.
The convener also raised concerns over sensitive military body camera footage and other information reaching foreign journalists. “This is not merely a leak of information, it is a direct attack on national security and sovereignty,” Farooqui said. He demanded an immediate high-level impartial investigation within the armed forces.
Reacting to a recent incident involving a candidate’s entry and conduct at a military cantonment, he said the cantonment is a sensitive area where strict rules on carrying weapons and entry are normal and following them is part of maintaining state discipline. However, he noted the candidate’s subsequent public apology is being viewed positively.
Farooqui further criticised the overseas leakage of sensitive military information and alleged hacking of Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman’s ID using links associated with Bangabhaban, calling it a serious threat to state cybersecurity.
