Move to Curb Digital Scams
Chandpur Makes Licences Mandatory for Online Hilsa Sales
- Online sellers of Chandpur hilsa must obtain licences from the district administration
- Applications are due by November 15; licences must be collected by November 30
- Police have arrested 11 people over alleged online hilsa scams
The Chandpur district administration has introduced a licensing requirement for online businesses selling hilsa under the district’s name, aiming to curb fraud targeting customers. From now on, traders wishing to sell Chandpur hilsa online must obtain a licence from the district administration. The move follows allegations that fraud networks have been collecting money from customers through Facebook pages and other online platforms while claiming to sell the district’s renowned hilsa.
The decision was announced in a special notice issued by the Business, Trade and Investment Branch of the district administration on Wednesday, November 4. The notice was signed by Chandpur Deputy Commissioner Ahmed Ziaur Rahman.
The deputy commissioner said bringing online sellers under a licensing system would significantly reduce opportunities for fraud in the name of Chandpur hilsa. He added that a registration process had been introduced for online hilsa traders.
According to the notice, interested traders must meet the prescribed conditions, complete the designated application form and submit their applications by November 15. They must also provide the required documents and collect their licences by November 30. Application forms are available from the Deputy Commissioner's Office.
Chandpur Superintendent of Police Md. Mizanur Rahman said police had already taken action over fraudulent activities involving online hilsa sales. He said 11 people had been arrested and sent to jail following specific complaints related to the matter.
Sources from the district administration and law enforcement agencies said several groups had been conducting scams in different parts of the country for an extended period by exploiting the reputation of Chandpur hilsa. They added that suspects had been detained following operations in several areas, including Narail.
The district administration expects the new licensing system to make it easier to verify the identities and business activities of online hilsa sellers. The initiative is also expected to reduce the risk of fraud and strengthen consumers’ confidence in purchasing hilsa online.
//DBTech/PBON/SMP/MIST//
