Unlicensed brokers are defrauding Bangladeshi workers seeking employment in Saudi Arabia, charging up to TK 3 lakh 50 thousand for visas that never materialise, an investigation by a private television channel has revealed.

Investigation, broadcast on December 8, exposed a network of intermediaries operating from offices at capital’s Banani and Nayapaltan. One victim, Abdullah, paid TK 1 lakh 50 thousand to brokers and spent another TK 2 lakh preparing for Saudi Arabia, but received nothing in return.

Investigative team tracked broker Mozammel to an office in Banani, but found only subtenants. When contacted by phone and said which channel was calling, Mozammel responded "Brother, Alhamdulillah, I'm fine" before becoming unreachable.

Team then visited Mawlana Overseas on the 20^th floor of China Town Shopping Centre at capital’s  Nayapaltan, finding the office locked. Owner Saiful Islam told investigators by phone that he sells visas for TK 3 lakh each, but claimed victims paid money to Mozammel in Banani instead.

"They didn't take any visa directly from me, do you understand? They took it from someone else," Saiful Islam said, indicating his involvement in the brokerage chain.

Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) Director Tanjilur Rahman, an Executive Magistrate, conducted raids following the investigation. Mobile court found Mawlana Overseas closed again.

"There is no opportunity to send workers abroad without a license. Those who operate outside this framework are committing fraud, engaging in illegal activities," he said.

He added that BMET can take action through mobile courts and file cases directly.

Investigation highlights gaps in monitoring Bangladesh's manpower export system, which continues damaging the country's international reputation.

Source: Channel 24.