Expatriates in Peril: Human trafficking reign of Selim Jalal in Malaysia
Sylhet Correspondent :
A terrifying human trafficking cycle led by Md. Jalal Uddin, also known as Selim Jalal, has been uncovered in Malaysia. The harrowing nature of his crimes has recently sparked an outcry on social media as victims come forward to expose his operations.
Social media analysis reveals Smuggling Syndicate, which, for several years, Jalal has trafficked hundreds of people into Malaysia using various illegal routes in exchange of large sums of money. Once the victims arrive, they are held captive as he demands further payments. Desperate to secure their release, many families have been forced to sell their ancestral homes and final assets.
Due to the current suspension of labor recruitment in Malaysia, these trafficking syndicates have grown more aggressive. Traffickers are now smuggling individuals through rivers and jungles via India, Myanmar, and Thailand. According to a victim speaking on condition of anonymity, Selim Jalal is the mastermind behind this network.
Beyond trafficking, Selim is accused of embezzling money from hundreds of workers under the pretext of renewing their visas. When the visas are not provided, he uses intimidation to keep the victims silent.
Consequently, hundreds of Bangladeshis are currently hiding in Malaysian jungles, living among dangerous snakes and wildlife. Sabur Mondal, a victim, stated: “I am starving in the jungle because of Selim Jalal. He took our visa money and made us illegal.
Hundreds are suffering like me”. Golam, another victim, pleaded: “Because of this man from Cumilla, we are hiding in the jungle. We have no work and cannot eat. I urge the Embassy to take action”. Raham Ali noted that while victims are on the run, the fraudster is reportedly seen roaming freely in the Bukit Bintang area.?
Political Links and his Criminal History, The July Revolutionary Alliance (JRA) has stood by the workers, alleging that Jalal-who claims to be the general secretary of the banned Awami League-is responsible for the plight of these undocumented individuals.
Records indicate that in 2015, Jalal was destitute in Kuala Lumpur. After marrying a Malaysian national, he reportedly became involved in serious crimes, including extortion and kidnapping. Most recently, he is alleged to have embezzled billions of Taka through fraudulent recruitment schemes.
While Jalal identifies as a businessman, investigations suggest he has no legitimate trade and often involves his multiple wives in his criminal activities. Selim could not be reached for comment on the matter.
Sociologists say that such fraudsters have an extraordinary ability to hypnotize people, which is why they are very dangerous. Their presence in society is a major obstacle to the normal development of a community.
Analysts also commented that they, along with their accomplices, need to be separated from society, and strict punishments need to be provided so that no one else can exploit and deceive people in such a way.
The Bangladesh High Commission has confirmed receiving numerous complaints against Selim and stated that legal measures are being initiated against him.