Dhaka: The Dhaka Metropolitan Sessions Judge Court has instructed Bangladesh Bank to freeze four bank accounts belonging to Mostafizur Rahman Chowdhury, a former lawmaker from the Chattogram-16 constituency, and his wife, Shaheen Aktar Chowdhury. This decision comes as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of illegal wealth accumulation through political influence and corruption.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the order was issued by Judge Zakir Hossain following a petition from the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). Deputy Director Murtoza Al Mamun of the ACC informed the court that the investigation into the couple’s financial activities is nearing completion. The ACC expressed concerns that the funds might be transferred to other accounts, complicating efforts to recover the money.
The ACC’s request to freeze the accounts falls under section 14 of the Money Laundering Prevention Act-2012. The amounts involved are substantial, with Mostafizur Rahman Chowdhury holding Taka 42 crore in an account at Madhumati Bank’s Motijheel branch and Taka 39.17 crore at Mercantile Bank’s Khatunganj branch in Chattogram. Additionally, Shaheen Aktar Chowdhury has deposits of Taka 32.19 crore and Taka 27.56 crore at Madhumati Bank and AB Bank, respectively, both in the Motijheel branch.
The ACC’s actions reflect a broader initiative to address corruption and financial misconduct within the country. The court’s decision underscores the serious nature of the allegations and the importance of safeguarding public resources. The investigation’s outcome may have significant implications for both Mostafizur Rahman Chowdhury and his wife, as well as for anti-corruption efforts in Bangladesh.