Estimates suggest over Tk1 lakh cr in embezzled funds

Bangladesh Bank and the interim government are undertaking significant efforts to restructure the country’s banking sector, focusing on recovering both local and foreign assets embezzled by corrupt individuals.

Officials have confirmed that these assets, laundered abroad, are being targeted for repatriation as part of a broader initiative to bring the financial sector up to international standards.

The government emphasized its commitment to reforming the financial sector, acknowledging that the process is complex and time-consuming.

A key element of this strategy will be the establishment of a banking commission tasked with investigating each implicated bank, uncovering the full extent of the corruption, and developing an action plan, according to the Chief Adviser’s press wing. This plan, which can be implemented within six months, aims to overhaul the sector to ensure compliance with global banking norms.

The aim of Bangladesh Bank and the government is to be capable of complying with all international standards and building a strong banking sector. However, international technical assistance and funding will be required from the beginning to the end of the activities to achieve this objective.

The reforms come in response to revelations that unscrupulous businessmen and influential figures have embezzled vast sums from the banking sector, laundering the funds abroad through fraudulent activities.

Preliminary estimates suggest the total embezzled amount could exceed Tk 1 lakh crore, though the exact figure is still being determined.

Significant steps have already been taken, with reforms initiated in several banks linked to the scandal. The boards of Islami Bank, Social Islami Bank, National Bank, United Commercial Bank, Global Islami Bank, and Union Bank have been reconstituted as part of the restructuring efforts. Similar measures will be implemented across other affected banks and financial institutions.

The government has also sought assistance from foreign agencies to track and repatriate the laundered funds. As the new management teams take control, they will be responsible for gathering accurate data on the embezzled amounts and leading the recovery efforts.