Free SIM scam leaves Thakurgaon residents facing legal troubles

A fraudulent scheme offering free SIM cards and recharge has left several families in Thakurgaon embroiled in legal cases, officials and locals say.

According to reports, a long-active gang operating in the villages of Akcha, Mohammadpur, and Chilarang in Thakurgaon Sadar Upazila has been targeting women and vulnerable rural residents. The group allegedly lures people with the promise of a free SIM card and a BDT 105 recharge, but secretly registers multiple SIMs using the victim’s national ID.

Victims report that while each person receives only one SIM, 8–10 additional SIMs are registered under their NID without their knowledge. These extra numbers are suspected to be used in criminal activities across the country, leaving the registered individuals liable in any legal case linked to the SIM.

Local resident Selim Reza said his mother, sister-in-law, and sister received SIMs through the scheme, only to later discover multiple additional SIMs registered in their names. “Now, several numbers are active under their names, and the family lives in fear,” he said.

Another resident, Nur Nahar Begum, said she discovered multiple SIMs registered under her NID after buying just one. Attempts to cancel the extra numbers through customer care have reportedly been unsuccessful.

Victim Sadikul said police visited his home after his wife took a SIM, informing the family about related legal cases, causing mental distress and forcing travel to Dhaka for case proceedings. Similarly, another victim, Soleman, said his wife became embroiled in a separate case, requiring multiple trips to Cox’s Bazar and causing financial and psychological strain.

Thakurgaon police confirmed that the matter is under investigation. Authorities are examining complaints of multiple SIMs being registered using NIDs and have urged victims to file written complaints at the local police station.

Robi Axiata Limited corporate communications officer Ashraful Islam said similar complaints have been received previously and that a thorough investigation will be conducted. “If any company employee is found involved, appropriate action will be taken,” he added.

Thakurgaon Sadar Upazila Executive Officer Khairul Islam said the administration is monitoring the issue and will coordinate with the telecom company to resolve the problem if necessary.