Netrokona district loan fraud in the name of IFAD: huge money embezzlement, death threats.

Md. Nuhu Islam

Serious allegations against organized gangs using fake documents and names of influential people
Special report
In the corner of the eye deception
This report has been prepared based on the information received from Dhaka and the statement of the victim.
An organized fraud ring has been accused of embezzling huge sums of money by using the name of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to lure loans. According to the victim's complaint, this gang is extorting lakhs of rupees from common people by promising loans online with easy terms.
Belayet Hossain, the victim, said that a person who identified himself as Mohammad Ali Mainu (pseudonym) contacted him claiming to be an IFAD official. Online application is made with assurance of loan under 'IFAD Link Loan' programme.
Later, multiple documents such as application certificate, loan decision certificate and loan approval certificate are sent. As a part of these processes, he was forced to deposit a total of Tk 2 lakh 2 thousand 539 in different bank accounts at various stages for 'refundable fee' and 'fund transfer fee'.
Using fake letters and names of influencers
Bangladesh Bank Resolution Department (BRD) director Md. Asaduzzaman sent fake documents impersonating a letter signed by Khan. The letter mentions the loan waiver through Bangladesh Bank.
Later, the victim was informed that in order to get a loan of Tk 30 lakh, he would have to pay 10 percent of the total loan in advance as a 'gift' to IFAD, Bangladesh Bank and the National Board of Revenue (NBR).
Identity fraud and death threats
The investigation revealed that the identity of the accused Mohammad Ali Mainu was not matched with the information of the national identity card and mobile number that he was using.
Belayet Hossain, the victim, complained and said, "When I went to an address in Banani to verify the authenticity of the organization, the issue of fraud became clear. Since then, I have been receiving death threats over the phone. They are bragging saying - 'We have a lot of power, complain wherever you want'."
Law enforcement investigationIt is said that the incident has come to the attention of the highest level of law enforcement. The CID and Malibagh CPC head office received the complaint documents on the instructions of the Inspector General of Police (IGP). Besides, several law enforcement agencies including RAB-1, RAB-10 are looking into the matter.
warning
According to experts, there is no legal provision for online lending in the name of international organizations or Bangladesh Bank. Demanding an advance, gift or commission in return for a loan is a sign of fraud.
Presently, the role of accused Mohammad Ali Mainu and his accomplice Lucky Khatun is under investigation.Attempts are being made to get the statements of the accused in this regard. Statements will be released later when available.