FE Today Logo
Search date: 07-04-2025 Return to current date: Click here

Steps afoot to bring back Hasina: ACC chairman

April 07, 2025 00:00:00


FE REPORT

Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Chairman Dr Mohammad Abdul Momen on Sunday said accurate measures would be taken with the support of international organisations to bring back ousted premier Sheikh Hasina.

When court issues an arrest warrant for an absconding accused living abroad, there are procedures to bring them back, he added.

"There are procedures including the Interpol, we'll also follow other procedures available," the ACC chief said, adding that they are in contact with international agencies.

He made the disclosures at a press briefing on his office premises at Segunbagicha while responding to a query regarding taking legal steps against Hasina and other individuals who left the country after the July uprising.

About any ACC initiative or action to formally bring back Hasina who is an accused in the ACC case, Dr Momen said the ACC is the prosecutor that does not issue any arrest warrant.

"That is the court's responsibility. You will receive an arrest warrant from the court as soon as possible. If the accused absconds, there is a process of bringing that accused back."

Regarding the repatriation of laundered money, the ACC chair said some money has so far been returned in only one case since Bangladesh's independence.

"The cost of bringing back that money is more than the actual recovery, this is the reality. Still, we're trying to bring back at least some of it."

When asked whether cricketer Shakib Al Hasan would continue to work as a goodwill ambassador of the ACC, Dr Momen said the commission was investigating allegations of corruption against him.

"If any evidence of his involvement is found in the investigation, a case may be filed against him."

Regarding the ACC's action against Tulip Siddiq, ACC chairman said there was enough evidence to support the case against Tulip. A full charge sheet has been prepared after reviewing the documents in detail.

"The issue will now depend on the court. If she (Tulip) fails to appear after the warrant is issued, he will be considered a fugitive offender," he said.

saif.febd@gmail.com


Share if you like