BFIU seeks bank account details of former adviser Asif Mahmud

Bangla Press Desk:  Bangladesh’s Financial Intelligence Unit (BIFU) has sought details of all bank accounts of former interim government adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain, who was among the front-line leaders of the July Uprising.

On Monday, the watchdog contacted banks and financial institutions over a complaint, asking them to furnish account-opening files, transaction histories, and identification particulars within three working days.The BFIU routinely collects banking information of individuals and institutions as part of its mandate.

Bound by agreements with international agencies, it does not disclose details of ongoing investigations.

A managing director of a private bank, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the letter included Asif’s name, date of birth, and national ID number.

“If any account exists, the bank will notify the BFIU in accordance with regulations,” the official added.

Attempts to reach BFIU chief executive Ikhtiar Uddin Mohammad Mamun were unsuccessful.

Following the fall of the Awami League administration on Aug 5, 2024, the interim government took office on Aug 8 under Muhammad Yunus.

As one of the three student representatives in the cabinet, Asif initially held the portfolios for the labour and youth and sports ministries before moving to the local government ministry.

He stepped down on Dec 10 last year following demands from political parties ahead of the parliamentary elections.

Although he did not contest in the polls, he currently serves as spokesperson for the National Citizen Party (NCP).

After news of the BFIU move surfaced, Asif took to his Facebook page to announce that he will personally release his bank statements.Source: daily Sun

BP/SP