CID arrests three accused of using fake traffic violation alerts in Dhaka

The gang used fake messages and BRTA-style site to cheat victims, CID says

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has arrested three people over allegations of sending fake traffic violation messages and cheating money from victims in Dhaka.

According to the CID, the group exploited the rollout of AI-based traffic management cameras by sending fabricated messages claiming traffic offence fines.

They also created a website mimicking the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) portal to collect fines and steal personal and banking information.

The gang allegedly transferred nearly Tk 7.26 million into their own accounts by using the name of government institutions and threats of legal action.

The arrested individuals are Md Rabbi Sheikh, 24, Md Riad Hossain, 31, and Md Sazzad Hossain, 31.

At a press briefing at CID Headquarters in Malibagh on Tuesday, Deputy Inspector General Shana Shaminur Rahman said Rabbi was arrested in Botiaghata in Khulna, Riad in Feni Sadar and Sazzad in Dakshinkhan in Dhaka on Monday during an investigation into a case filed with Uttara West Police.

The CID said the victim received a message on his mobile phone in the name of BRTA, informing him of a traffic fine and case related to a vehicle used at his office.

The message contained a link where he was shown a Tk 3,000 fine for a traffic violation.

The message also claimed that if the fine was paid within 48 hours, only half the amount would be required.

Further investigation is ongoing, the CID said.