In a groundbreaking operation, the Directorate General of Drug Control (DNC) in Bangladesh has uncovered an extensive international drug smuggling network, leading to the arrest of key players, including the alleged mastermind, Nigerian citizen Jacob Frankie, also known as “Frankie Bangladesh.” The operation has not only exposed the intricate web of the narcotics trade but has also resulted in the apprehension of several accomplices involved in the illegal business.
A very long time, Frankie Bangladesh had been operating discreetly behind the scenes, orchestrating a complex drug smuggling network that spanned multiple countries. His influence reached far and wide, with the President of the Nigerian community in Bangladesh reportedly serving as a front for his criminal enterprises. The drug lord had successfully managed to control international drug trafficking, leaving a trail of secret operations in his wake.
The recent unraveling of this crime network began with a significant cocaine colonization at Capital Tejgaon industrial area, where the DNC seized 8 kilograms and 300 grams of cocaine from a Malawi citizen, named Suku. This unprecedented haul marked the initiation of a widespread crackdown on the syndicate, leading to further arrests and revelations that exposed the extent of Frankie Bangladesh’s reach.
Following the initial arrest, the DNC intensified its efforts and, in a matter of days, apprehended two more individuals involved in the drug trade. Tanzanian citizen Mohamedi Ali was caught with 200 grams of cocaine, marking one of the largest cocaine rescues in the country’s history. The subsequent days saw a relentless campaign against the drug cartel, resulting in the arrest of five more individuals, including three foreigners: Kelvin Yeung from Cameroon, Ijima Peter alias Oscar from Nigeria, and Noodle Ebuka Stanley alias Podsky also from Nigeria.
Director General of DNC, Mustaqeem Billah Farooqui disclosed that the interrogation of the arrested individuals, particularly Malawi citizen Suku and Tanzanian citizen Mohamedi Ali, unveiled digital evidence and CCTV footage that implicated several other members of the international drug cartel. The focus shifted to locating the mastermind, Frankie Bangladesh, who had managed to evade authorities for an extended period.
Director General of DNC Farooqui stated, “The campaign’s analysis revealed that the syndicate’s members were connected globally, and we are actively pursuing leads to dismantle the entire network. Frankie Bangladesh’s influence reached far beyond our borders.”
The investigation further exposed the involvement of Bangladeshi citizens in facilitating the entry of foreign drug traffickers. Saiful Islam Roni and Asaduzzaman Apple were identified as key local coordinators working in tandem with Frankie Bangladesh. Their responsibilities included extending invitations, arranging hotel accommodations, and providing visa assistance to foreign members of the syndicate.
DG-DNC Mr. Farooqui disclosed, “Ronnie’s role was crucial in securing the entry of drug bearers into the country. The syndicate used a front organization named Maspex Ltd, allegedly issuing fake invitations to facilitate their illicit activities.”
In a significant breakthrough, authorities raided Frankie Bangladesh’s residence in Baridhara, unearthing crucial evidence that linked him directly to the drug smuggling operation. The search yielded multiple fake invitation letters, implicating the syndicate’s involvement in securing the necessary documentation for its members. Additionally, mobile phones, laptops, and other technological devices were seized, shedding light on the intricate workings of the criminal empire.
CCTV footage analysis and interrogations with local residents revealed Frankie’s long-standing presence in the area, providing insights into his operational base and the extent of his influence in Bangladesh.
The successful dismantling of this extensive drug cartel underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational crimes. Directorate General of Drug Control (DNC), working in collaboration with law enforcement agencies from Malawi, Tanzania, Cameroon, and Nigeria, showcased the effectiveness of coordinated efforts in tackling global criminal enterprises.
The recent crackdown on Frankie Bangladesh’s international drug syndicate marks a significant victory in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking. The operation has not only disrupted a major smuggling network but has also exposed the intricate connections between local facilitators and global masterminds. As authorities continue their pursuit of justice, this case serves as a stark reminder that no criminal enterprise is beyond the reach of determined and collaborative law enforcement efforts.
