ACC seeks asset info on ex-BFIU chief Masud Biswas from 11 countries

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has sent letters to 11 countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Dubai, Malaysia, and Singapore, requesting information about assets of former Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) head Masud Biswas.

Additionally, the anti-graft body has requested the additional inspector general of police's Special Branch to ban Biswas from leaving the country, said a letter issued today (3 October) signed by Deputy Director Gulshan Anwar Prodhan of the ACC headquarters. 

ACC Public Relations Officer Aktarul Islam confirmed the matter to The Business Standard.

The ACC letter mentioned several allegations against the former BFIU chief, including amassing vast wealth beyond his known source of income by misusing power, taking bribes and other irregularities and corrupt practices. 

A four-member team is currently investigating these allegations against Biswas, said the letter. 

Citing confidential sources, the ACC letter stated that Biswas may be attempting to flee the country.

Therefore, the organisation has urged authorities to take swift and decisive action to prevent Biswas from fleeing the country.

Earlier on 25 September, the ACC launched investigations into the former BFIU head following initial findings from the agency's intelligence unit that suggested substantial evidence of corruption against Biswas.

Additionally, it has been reported that Masud was involved in syphoning money abroad in collusion with Saiful Alam, chairman of S Alam Group, through fraudulent loans from Islami Bank.

He allegedly received unethical benefits from Abdul Kadir Mollah's Thermax Group and laundered money overseas. Furthermore, he is accused of covering up money laundering cases involving Zeenat Enterprises in exchange for bribes, leading to the acquisition of significant assets.