Dhaka: Former Awami League minister Dr. Mohammad Hasan Mahmud and his family have come under scrutiny for allegedly amassing significant wealth through suspicious transactions. The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has identified over Tk 750 crore in questionable transactions across 70 bank accounts linked to Mahmud, his wife Nuran Fatema, daughter Nafisa Jumaina Mahmud, and his brothers, Ershad Mahmud and Khaled Mahmud.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the ACC revealed these transactions were inconsistent with the known income sources of Mahmud and his family. The investigation found that the current balance in these accounts is Tk 23 crore, 60 lakh, 70 thousand, and 202. These transactions occurred in multiple banks, including Meghna Bank, Global Islami Bank, AB Bank, Union Bank, among others.
The ACC’s findings suggest that the wealth accumulation rate of Mahmud and his family is approximately 4,500 times higher than reported in their income tax filings. Allegations against them include money laundering, land grabbing in Rangunia, Chittagong, and illegal construction activities. Additionally, there are claims of significant assets in both Bangladesh and abroad, including a resort in Ajman, Abu Dhabi.
Hasan Mahmud, who previously served as the Minister of Forests and Environment and later as the Minister of Information and Broadcasting, is accused of misusing his position for personal gain. The ACC alleges that he facilitated a shipbuilding license for his wife, leading to financial disputes and a case filed by FMC Group for unpaid contract money.
The investigation also uncovered substantial bank transactions by Mahmud’s daughter, Nafisa, and her involvement in publishing an English newspaper, allegedly established through her father’s influence. The ACC has noted inconsistencies in income tax payments related to these activities.
The ACC’s inquiry extends to various properties and financial interests held by the family, including multi-storey buildings, land acquisitions, and business ventures. Hasan Mahmud’s official financial declarations to the Election Commission appear significantly understated compared to the alleged wealth uncovered by the ACC.
The ACC has taken legal steps, including seizing Mahmud’s bank accounts, as part of its ongoing investigation into these allegations.