ACC to investigate former chairman Iqbal Mahmud

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has decided to investigate former chairman Iqbal Mahmud over allegations of corruption, ACC Deputy Director and Public Relations Officer Md. Aktarul Islam confirmed on Monday (December 1).

This marks the first time in ACC’s history that a former chairman will be formally investigated.

Sources say Mahmud’s brother, Sadiq Mahmud Bakul, was a close business associate of contractor Motazzarul Islam Mithu, who has faced scrutiny over irregularities in the health sector. Allegedly, Mithu and Bakul colluded in various corrupt practices in the health sector, remaining untouchable due to Iqbal Mahmud’s influence.

Iqbal Mahmud is accused of receiving two flats in Dhaka’s upscale Gulshan area from Mithu, along with allegations of money laundering, abuse of power, and illicit wealth acquisition.

The ACC will also investigate the sources of Bakul’s assets.

Mahmud’s name surfaced following information obtained from Mithu after his arrest and remand on September 11.