Bangladesh Bank (BB), Criminal Investigation Department (CID), and bKash have joined forces to run a special campaign aimed at raising awareness against online gambling. This initiative targets people from all walks of life, with a particular focus on the youth. The campaign emphasizes the severe social and financial consequences of online gambling and highlights the relevant legal provisions and punitive measures, which may include up to two years' imprisonment, fines as high as Taka one crore, and arrest without a warrant.
Awareness Through Multiple Channels
The awareness advertisements are being broadcast across various television channels, published in newspapers, and shared on social media platforms. Several news outlets have also published reports detailing the damaging effects of gambling. This collaborative effort by the regulator, law enforcement, and financial service provider underscores their commitment to social responsibility and zero tolerance toward criminal activities.
Stern Warning to Perpetrators
Major General Sheikh Md Monirul Islam (retd), chief external and corporate affairs officer of bKash, stated, "As a responsible financial institution, we are conducting this campaign jointly with Bangladesh Bank and CID. We execute awareness drives throughout the year to foster secure transactions across the financial ecosystem and will continue this effort in the days ahead."
Jasim Uddin Khan, special superintendent of Police (Media) under CID, added, "Addiction to online gambling is emerging with the expansion of technology. Many assume that if they gamble online, no one will know or be able to trace them, but a digital trail always remains behind. This joint initiative has been launched to reiterate the strict provisions of the law, and everyone must stay vigilant to keep themselves safe."
