The Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism has issued an urgent warning following reports linking a travel agency to human trafficking activities.

In a press release signed by the ministry’s Information and Public Relations Officer, Tarikul Islam, on Sunday, the ministry said the matter came to its attention after a report titled “UK Sanctions Bangladeshi Travel Agency Over Human Trafficking to Russia” was published.

According to the statement, the agency involved in human trafficking is “Dream Home Travels,” not “Dream Home Travels and Tours Limited.”

The ministry said an investigation was launched after a report published in the Daily Kaler Kantho on January 28, 2025, titled “Eight Bangladeshis in Russia War.” The investigation found that the travel agency certificate of Dream Home Travels (Certificate No. 0012021), owned by M M Abul Hasan, had expired on April 3, 2021.

Under the Bangladesh Travel Agency Registration and Control Act 2013, registration of travel agencies is mandatory. Agencies are required to complete registration and renewal through the online Travel Agency Management System.

The ministry also noted that many travel agencies are currently operating without valid registration or after their licenses have expired. Complaints of fraud and harassment against such agencies have also been reported.

In this situation, the ministry urged passengers and travelers not to make any financial transactions with unregistered or expired travel agencies. 

It also advised customers to verify the registration and renewal status of agencies through the Travel Agency Management System before purchasing tickets or tour packages.

The ministry said following these precautions would help travelers avoid financial losses and fraud.