Multiple units of the Bangladesh Police have launched an investigation into a transnational gang spreading false, misleading, and defamatory information targeting several police officials.
The organised syndicate is reportedly using fake social media identities and pages, incorporating the names, photographs, and identities of officers to conduct these smear campaigns.
Police Headquarters officials confirmed to TIMES of Bangladesh on Friday that several members of the gang have already been identified, and operations are currently underway to apprehend them.
Preliminary investigations indicate that secret online portals and fraudulent social media pages are being systematically utilised to target officers for the purposes of extortion, blackmail, and damaging the reputations of individuals and the institution.
Investigators have found evidence of direct involvement by an individual based in Chattogram.
Among those reportedly targeted by these campaigns are Additional DIG Raihan Uddin Khan, and another DIG. A specialised cyber team from the Bangladesh Police is working closely on the matter.
Based on evidence collected thus far, authorities believe the activities are being coordinated by an inter-country syndicate operating from both within Bangladesh and abroad.
Sources within the police headquarters revealed that the investigation has uncovered the involvement of several other individuals, including dismissed, fugitive, and court-convicted police personnel.
Information has also emerged regarding the participation of certain individuals identified as loyalists to the former Awami League regime.
Law enforcement agencies are working to identify all those involved to ensure necessary legal action is taken. Officials stated that, based on the evidence obtained during the investigation, legal proceedings against the relevant individuals will be initiated swiftly.
