B Mirror Desk : The government is exploring the possibility of recovering laundered funds through a compromise, according to Bangladesh Bank Governor Ahsan H. Mansur. He made this statement during a view-sharing meeting held at the Bangladesh Bank’s Chittagong office yesterday, which focused on ‘Prevention of Money Laundering and Contemporary Banking Issues.’
The governor noted that pursuing the return of money through legal avenues can be a lengthy process. He pointed out that many nations opt for alternative solutions outside the legal system. “If we can facilitate the return of funds through a compromise, it would be significantly quicker,” he remarked.
He emphasized the importance of gathering precise information regarding the amount of wealth that has been laundered and the countries involved, regardless of whether the recovery is achieved through legal means or compromise. The more comprehensive the information, the better the chances of success.
The governor said that some private institutions have been appointed for this purpose. He said, ‘These institutions are helping us to identify laundered assets. After collecting information, we will discuss with the government agencies of the concerned countries. We have to work according to the legal framework of that country. Communication has already started and we are getting a positive response from them.’
In response to questions from journalists, the Governor said, ‘A large business group in Chittagong, S Alam, has laundered about 1.25 trillion to 1.5 trillion taka. If Beximco and several other large groups are included, this figure could be 2.5 to 3 trillion taka. A large part of the country’s unpaid debt of about 5 trillion taka has been laundered. Even though the remaining money has not been laundered, it has not been recovered yet. Action is being taken through the debt court to recover this money.’
Regarding the allegations of involvement of Bangladesh Bank officials in money laundering, he said, ‘Action is taken if specific allegations are received. Action cannot be taken based on assumptions or allegations. If the ACC or any state agency makes a complaint with evidence, then it is considered.
The Governor expressed optimism about the nation’s economic recovery, stating, “At present, the economic conditions are favorable. Reserves, inflation, and export revenues are all showing positive trends.”
The event, led by Md. Jobair Hossain, Deputy Director of Bangladesh Bank Chittagong, featured notable attendees including Md. Jamal Uddin, Executive Director of the Central Bank, AFM Shahinul Islam, Head of the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit, Md. Anisur Rahman, and Md. Salah Uddin, Director of Bangladesh Bank Chittagong, among others.
