AL syndicate still controls 999 services via Indian firm
Staff Reporter :
The National Emergency Helpline – 999 – was launched to provide immediate assistance to citizens during crises such as accidents, crimes, fires, or medical emergencies. However, recent developments have raised concerns about the service still being under the influence of an Awami League-linked syndicate and an Indian software company, potentially compromising national security.
The National Emergency Service (999) was initially conceptualized by Sajeeb Wazed Joy, son of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. It was first introduced as the “999-National Help Desk (NHD)” and operated under the ICT Division.
Later, the project was transferred to the Ministry of Home Affairs and is now managed by Bangladesh Police (Police Telecom). The service was officially inaugurated on December 12, 2017, by Sajeeb Wazed Joy at the Metropolitan Police Crime Command and Control Centre in Dhaka.
From the start, the full implementation of the 999 project was handed over to Digicon Technologies Ltd., owned by Wahidur Rahman Sharif-a close associate of Sajeeb Wazed Joy. Reports suggest that they studied together at the University of Texas (Arlington).
Additionally, Multimedia Content and Communication (MCC) Ltd., owned by Abir, a former energy minister and key member of the Awami League-affiliated Center for Research and Information (CRI), was a joint partner in the project.
These two companies developed the entire 999 infrastructure using a software solution named “Trinity,” which is solely owned by an Indian company. This software handles critical functions such as GIS tracking, call-taking, caller information, phone records, and system control, effectively allowing data access from India.
After the fall of the Awami League regime on August 5, 2024, the 999 authorities announced a new tender on December 12, 2024, for the “Upgradation and Expansion of National Emergency Service 999 on a Turnkey Basis.”
However, despite the political change, the same syndicate allegedly sought to retain control. Since Digicon Technologies Ltd. could not directly participate, they reportedly used another company, Smart Technologies, as a front.
During the pre-bid phase, multiple companies raised concerns about the continued use of Indian software, citing national security risks. However, their objections were ignored. Several firms also requested a brief seven-day extension to submit their bids, but this was rejected by the 999 authorities. Allegedly, the decision was influenced by Additional DIG Tabarak Ullah, a long-time affiliate of Digicon and the Awami League inner circle.
Experts warn that operating a national emergency service with foreign-controlled software poses severe risks. Sensitive data, including the real-time locations of emergency responders and callers, could be accessed externally, potentially jeopardizing national security.
Calls are growing for the government to take immediate action and ensure that the 999 service is operated with locally developed software. A truly independent and transparent bidding process is essential to prevent wasteful spending and safeguard the integrity of Bangladesh’s emergency response system.