ACC summons 12 ex-secretaries

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has summoned 12 former secretaries during the Awami League government over allegations that they were allocated luxury flats in the capital's Dhanmondi area in violation of rules, reports bdnews24.com.

ACC Director General Md Akhtar Hossain confirmed the development on Thursday and said: "Interrogations to find out about allegations is part of the investigation team's regular work."

Those called include two former ACC commissioners Mozammel Haque Khan and Jahurul Haque, as well as former secretaries Md Eunusur Rahman, Quader Sarker, M Aslam Alam, Aktari Momtaz, Md Sirajul Haque Khan, Md Manjurul Bashir, Syed Aminul Islam, Md Salah Uddin, M Golam Faruk and Anisur Rahman.

A senior ACC official said they have been asked to appear for questioning on Sept 17, 18 and 21.

The inquiry centres on allegations of irregular allocations of high-priced flats under the National Housing Authority's "Housing Dhanmondi (Phase 1)" project.

Of the 18 flats built at house No. 711 (new 63) on Road No. 13 (new 6/A) in Dhanmondi, 12 went under the government quota and six under private quota.

The complaint alleges the flats were awarded as a "reward" to the 12 secretarial officers for their roles in the 2018 parliamentary elections.

A private TV channel first reported the matter on May 5, prompting the ACC to open an inquiry on May 12.