Bangladesh CID cracks down on illegal online betting network
Investigators said the group handled transactions estimated at around Tk20m (US$164,000) per day.
Bangladesh.- Authorities claim to have dismantled a transnational online gambling network accused of moving millions of taka through illegal betting operations both in Bangladesh and abroad over the past six months. Investigators said the group handled transactions estimated at around Tk20m (US$164,000) per day, with much of the proceeds allegedly transferred abroad through cryptocurrency and digital hundi systems.
A series of coordinated raids was led by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Authorities detained four suspects in Mymensingh and Kishoreganj on May 6. Information obtained during questioning later led to additional raids in Narsingdi and Dhaka, where four more suspects were taken into custody.
Speaking at a briefing in Dhaka on Sunday, May 17, CID chief and Additional Inspector General Mosleh Uddin Ahmed said the investigation began after cyber monitoring units detected suspicious online activity linked to gambling platforms. A case was subsequently filed at Paltan Police Station under cybercrime provisions.
Officials said the network used a layered structure to conceal its activities. Lower-level operators reportedly gathered information and arranged logistics such as SIM registration, while separate groups handled financial distribution. Senior figures allegedly coordinated activities and issued instructions through encrypted messaging channels.
The CID said players used mobile financial service platforms, bank accounts, and crypto wallets to fund betting activities before proceeds were transferred abroad through informal channels.
The CID said investigations are continuing to identify international associates and trace crypto wallets connected to the syndicate, while efforts are also underway with financial and overseas law enforcement agencies to recover funds allegedly moved out of the country.
