Three arrested for posing as faith healers in online fraud scheme

The Police Bureau of Investigation (PBI) has arrested three members of an alleged fraud ring accused of posing as faith healers to extort money from victims, particularly women, by exploiting personal and family problems.

According to investigators, the suspects contacted victims through fake Facebook profiles and Imo accounts, promising to resolve issues such as marital disputes. Victims were instructed to use chemicals during video calls, causing burns or injuries, and were then pressured to pay more money with false promises of healing through supernatural means.

The investigation began after a woman from Dhaka’s Khilkhet filed a case in June, alleging she was defrauded of Tk 21,000 and suffered loop chemical burns. Police arrested the suspects in Cumilla and Noakhali and seized mobile phones and SIM cards used in the operation.

PBI said the group also targeted victims in India using Indian SIM cards and Google Pay before transferring the money to Bangladesh through illegal channels. Investigators added that similar chemical injury cases have been reported in recent months and warned the public to be cautious of online scams exploiting religious beliefs and superstition.