116 ex-DCs, SPs who served during 2018 polls come under NBR scanner
The revenue body will inquire their suspected tax evasion, illegal asset accumulation
The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has initiated an investigation into suspected tax evasion and illicit asset accumulation by 116 former deputy commissioners (DCs) and superintendents of police (SPs) who served during the 11th National Parliamentary Election in 2018.
Several NBR officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, told TBS that the revenue board has taken the step amid allegations that these officers were involved in ensuring the victory of former ruling party Awami League candidates in the election, commonly known as the "night-time vote."
Initially, the tax files of these officers and their relatives have been summoned, said the officials. Their bank account details will be reviewed and they may be suspended if necessary, they said.
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The NBR has instructed all DCs and SPs serving during the 2018 election, to submit their tax files from local tax offices to the Tax Intelligence Unit.
The information regarding their declared assets in the tax filings will be cross-checked with their social lifestyles. The tax files of their spouses and relatives may be summoned if necessary.
There has been no official statement from the NBR yet on the matter.
A senior official from the Tax Intelligence Unit said, "The unit has received multiple credible allegations of tax evasion, illicit asset accumulation, and corruption against officers serving as DCs and SPs during the 2018 election."
He went on to say, "As a result, it has been decided to investigate the tax evasion of these officers. If evidence of illicit wealth is found, the Anti-Corruption Commission will be requested to take action in accordance with the country's laws."
