A court has directed further investigation against former Expatriates’ Welfare Minister Imran Ahmed, former IGP Benazir Ahmed, and 103 others in connection with allegations of fraud, extortion, and human trafficking.

Judge Md. Abdullah Al Mamun of the Human Trafficking Prevention Tribunal on Sunday accepted a petition by the accused and instructed the DB Police to submit a detailed report by January 7, 2026.

According to court sources, CID Inspector M Russel had submitted the final investigation report on July 15, recommending discharge of the accused, as the complainant’s allegations were found false. The investigation also sought action against complainant Altaf Khan for filing a false case. However, Altaf Khan filed a review petition against the report.

The case stems from September 3 of last year, when Altaf Khan, proprietor of Afia Overseas, filed a complaint at Paltan Police Station, alleging embezzlement of Tk 24,000 crore and human trafficking.

The allegations include manipulation of over 2,000 recruiting agents in manpower export. The accused reportedly created discriminatory practices among businesses in violation of constitutional principles. Officials, including Secretary Dr. Ahmed Muniruzz Salehin, allegedly used their positions to involve family members in the syndicate. Former Minister Imran Ahmed is accused of facilitating the syndicate by unlawfully approving an app for expatriates run by a relative of his wife.

Through intimidation and force, the syndicate allegedly extorted Tk 1.25 million each from 841 victims, totaling over Tk 12.56 crore, and systematically collected nearly Tk 24,000 crore from other businesses.