ACC to seek travel ban on Asif Mahmud

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has decided to seek a travel ban on former interim government adviser and National Citizen Party (NCP) spokesperson Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan, according to ACC sources.

The anti-graft agency is currently investigating allegations against Asif Mahmud of laundering money abroad, accumulating illegal wealth, abusing power, exchanging money for appointments and postings in government positions, tender manipulation and irregularities in various development projects.

The ACC believes that if Asif Mahmud leaves the country while the investigation is ongoing, it could hamper the inquiry. It has therefore decided to apply to the relevant authorities for a restriction on his foreign travel.

Meanwhile, the ACC has written to the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU), seeking information on the bank accounts, assets and domestic and overseas transactions of Asif Mahmud and his wife.

In the letter, the commission asked whether they have any bank accounts, investments or assets, including land purchases, or links to shell companies in Portugal, Australia, Dubai, Singapore and Switzerland.

The ACC said it is investigating allegations of abuse of power, acquisition of illegal assets and transfer of money abroad against Asif Mahmud, which have yet to be established.

Earlier this month, the ACC announced an investigation into allegations of corruption and irregularities against him and later sought documents on appointments, promotions and transfers during his tenure.

On Tuesday (15 September), ACC Md Secretary Saidur Rahman Khan said the commission could seek information from the relevant countries, if necessary, to verify allegations of money laundering abroad.

Meanwhile, on Monday (14 September), the ACC said it was not targeting anyone in the investigation and that the probe was being conducted according to its pending list.