ACC seeks six cases against 13 persons

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has found widespread irregularities and corruption in the procurement of masks, personal protective equipment (PPE), hospital equipment and related services during the Covid-19 pandemic, alleging misappropriation of millions of taka.
The commission has identified the involvement of 13 individuals, including former health and family welfare minister Dr Zahid Malek and project director Dr Iqbal Kabir, and recommended filing six separate cases.
According to ACC sources, an investigation report has been submitted to the commission, and cases will be filed following formal approval.
The investigation found that around Tk 122 million was embezzled under the "COVID-19 Emergency Response and Pandemic Preparedness" project of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) through multiple procurement packages.
The irregularities involved purchases of masks, gloves, hospital beds, thermometers, mobile applications, web platforms and TV awareness campaigns.
Under package GD-01, irregularities were detected in procuring KN-95 and N-95 masks and gloves, with Tk 34.7 million allegedly misappropriated.
The ACC cited relevant legal provisions, including Sections 409, 420, 120B and 109 of the Penal Code, along with Section 5(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1947.
In package GD-13, Tk 14.8 million was allegedly siphoned off in the procurement of electric hospital beds.
Another Tk 21.6 million was misused under GD-08 through overpayments for thermometers, masks and other equipment, while Tk 9.39 million was misappropriated under GD-05 for mask procurement.
The probe also found evidence of abuse of power and favouritism in awarding contracts. Under package SD-02, Tk 6.27 million was reportedly paid for TV awareness content that was never broadcast.
Irregularities were also detected in the development of the "Corona BD" mobile app and the "National Corona Care System" web application under package SD-01, where Tk 33.2 million was allegedly misappropriated through inflated payments.
The ACC said clear evidence of embezzlement was found in all six allegations and reports have been submitted accordingly.
Other accused include former additional director general Dr Tahmina Johra, Prof Dr Nasima Sultana, and several officials and businesspersons involved in the procurement process.

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