The branch manager of Aziz Cooperative Commerce and Finance (ACCF) bank in Sadullapur, Gaibandha, and other staff vanished with the money of around 300 customers, totaling 30 million taka. Regular profits were paid by the bank at first, but six months ago it stopped. The branch was abruptly terminated by the officials three months ago, and they departed the area.

The bank’s office in Naldanga, Sadullapur upazila, on the second floor of Saudia Market, has allegedly been shut for a long time, according to locals. The office is filled with furnishings, including tables and chairs. According to Mottaleb Hossain, the building’s owner, the bank, which was rented for 7,000 taka a month in 2016, was shut down by the authorities after ten months’ worth of unpaid rent.

The victim depositors alleged that the bank’s branch manager Abdul Bari, accountant Tajul Islam and senior officer Bellamin Hossain initially paid regular profits to customers, but later stopped it. After various arguments, the officials closed the branch and fled the area three months ago. They also said that although they were able to contact the officials by phone in the beginning, no one is answering the phone now. On the contrary, they are facing threats if they ask for their money back.

Small businessman Tamim Mia said, I had deposited 5 lakh taka five years ago. Although I received some money, 1 lakh 40 thousand taka is still stuck. The office is closed, no one is even picking up the phone.

In addition, several other customers said that they cannot find any way to get their hard-earned money back. The victims have sought the immediate intervention of the administration. They fear that if immediate action is not taken, it will be uncertain to get their hard-earned money back.

According to District Cooperative Officer Farid Uddin Sarkar, Aziz Cooperative was conducting business unlawfully in this respect. Action against them is still being taken, with the upazila administration’s assistance.