Two Arrested for Using AI to Impersonate Surgeon for Fraudulent Online Medicine Sales
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Detectives from the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) have arrested two individuals in Chattogram for allegedly using artificial intelligence to impersonate a renowned urologist and kidney transplant surgeon to sell unauthorized medications.
The suspects, identified as 23-year-old Tanvir Alam, also known as Rahat, and 23-year-old Md. Nur Nabi Islam, also known as Manik, were apprehended during operations in the Bayezid Bostami and Panchlaish areas on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Niaz Mehedi, Additional Deputy Commissioner of the DMP’s Media and Public Relations Division, confirmed the arrests on Thursday. He stated that the detainees are members of an organized criminal syndicate that created fraudulent social media profiles using the name, photograph, and professional credentials of Professor Md. Kamrul Islam to gain public trust.
According to investigators, the group utilized AI-powered technology to synthesize the surgeon’s voice in promotional videos. These videos were used to market various health products, falsely promising cures for prostate issues and sexual dysfunction. Authorities noted that many patients were misled by the high-profile endorsements, leading to significant health risks and financial losses.
The investigation was initiated after Professor Islam filed a formal complaint at the Sher-e-Bangla Nagar Police Station. The Financial Crime Investigation Team of the DMP’s Detective Branch (Cyber and Special Crime North) tracked the suspects using digital forensics.
During the raids in Chattogram, law enforcement officers seized three mobile phones, four SIM cards, and seven batches of counterfeit herbal food supplements. The suspects are currently in custody as police continue to hunt for other members of the network.
The Detective Branch has issued a public advisory urging citizens to verify the authenticity of medical advice and products through official hospital or institutional channels. Officials warned the public against trusting social media advertisements and encouraged those who have fallen victim to such scams to report the incidents to their nearest police station immediately.
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