A travel ban has been imposed on former Press Secretary to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Nayeemul Islam Khan, his wife Nasima Khan Monty, and their three daughters named Labiba Naeem Khan, Zulika Naeem Khan and Adiba Naeem Khan over a graft case filled by ACC.
The order was issued by Dhaka Metropolitan Senior Special Judge Md. Zakir Hossain Galib, following a petition filed by Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Deputy Director Afroza Haque Khan on Tuesday (February 25).
According to the ACC’s petition, Nayeemul is accused of amassing wealth from undisclosed sources, potentially through bribery or other illegal means. The allegations suggest that he and his family have been involved in concealing illicit earnings.
The investigation revealed that a total of 163 bank accounts linked to Nayeemul, his wife, and their three daughters recorded deposits of Tk 386 crore and withdrawals amounting to Tk 379 crore. As of now, these accounts collectively hold Tk 8.76 crore.
ACC has established a two-member investigation team to examine allegations of money laundering and the accumulation of wealth beyond known sources of income.
During the preliminary inquiry, confidential sources indicated that the accused were planning to flee the country to evade the investigation.
The court order emphasized the necessity of preventing the accused from leaving the country, as their potential escape could hinder the ongoing investigation. The decision aims to ensure their availability for questioning and to facilitate a thorough examination of the financial transactions under scrutiny.
ACC is now focused on tracing the sources of the alleged illegal funds and verifying the legitimacy of the wealth accumulated. Legal experts suggest that if the allegations are substantiated, the accused could face severe penalties under the Anti-Corruption Act.
The travel ban marks a significant step in Bangladesh`s continued efforts to curb corruption and illicit financial activities. The investigation is ongoing, and further developments are anticipated.
Nayeemul Islam Khan is a prominent figure due to his previous role as Press Secretary to the Prime Minister. The allegations have sparked widespread public interest, given his influential background and the substantial sums involved.
This case underscores the growing vigilance of anti-corruption authorities in Bangladesh and signals a strong stance against money laundering and unexplained wealth accumulation.