6 Chinese Nationals Arrested in Cox’s Bazar with Nearly 2,000 iPhones

Photo: CNI

Cox’s Bazar Correspondent: Police have detained six Chinese nationals in Cox’s Bazar on suspicion of being involved with an international online fraud network. During the operation, police recovered 1,938 iPhones, at least 30 laptops, and specialized communication equipment similar to walkie-talkies used by law enforcement agencies.

They were detained from Hotel Sea Palace in the Kalatali area of the city.

Cox’s Bazar Additional Superintendent of Police (Administration) Ahidur Rahman confirmed the information on Friday afternoon.

He said the operation was conducted based on information provided by Dhaka police and following a complaint filed with Ramu Police Station.

“At least 250 foreign nationals are involved in this online fraud and cybercrime network. They are staying in different parts of the country, including Cox’s Bazar. Our operation is still ongoing.”

Police official Ahidur Rahman said these details had emerged from the preliminary investigation.

A police source said around 200 to 300 Chinese and Taiwanese nationals had rented two hotels along the Marine Drive road in Cox’s Bazar and were allegedly carrying out various online fraudulent activities. The six detainees are also believed to be members of the network.

Hotel Sea Palace authorities said the group of Chinese nationals checked into the hotel on August 26. Several members of the group were detained during a police raid on Thursday night.