B Mirror Report: The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has taken major legal action over allegations of embezzlement involving approximately BDT 9.03 billion (Tk 903 crore 67 lakh) from National Bank Limited through the use of forged documents. In connection with this massive loan fraud, the ACC has given final approval to file a case against 26 individuals, including a Deputy Governor of Bangladesh Bank, owners of the Sikder Group, and several former and current top officials of National Bank.

ACC Director General Md. Akhtar Hossain confirmed that the approval was granted on Sunday (January 4) from the commission’s head office.

The list of accused includes several highly influential individuals. Among them is Dr. Md. Kabir Ahmed, Deputy Governor of Bangladesh Bank and former observer at National Bank. Members of the Sikder family named in the case include former director Monowara Sikder, Parveen Haque Sikder, and Ron Haque Sikder. Also included are former Managing Director of National Bank Chowdhury Moshtaq Ahmed, current Deputy Managing Director Arif Md. Shahidul Haque, along with several other senior bank officials and businesspersons.

According to the ACC’s investigation, the accused acted in collusion, abusing their authority and breaching criminal trust. By submitting fake “work agreements,” they initially secured approval for loans totaling Tk 6 billion (600 crore). The loan proceeds were later siphoned off through cash withdrawals, pay orders, and clearing processes. The ACC found that the funds were embezzled through a series of transfers and conversions.

As the principal loan amount remained unpaid for a long period, interest and other charges accumulated significantly. As of September 30, 2025, outstanding interest alone exceeded Tk 3.03 billion (303 crore 67 lakh). Consequently, the total financial loss to National Bank, including principal and interest, has reached Tk 9,036,72,621.20 (Tk 903 crore 67 lakh 2 thousand 621 taka and 20 paisa), according to the bank’s records.

The accused have been charged under various sections of the Penal Code related to fraud and forgery, as well as multiple provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1947, and the Money Laundering Prevention Act, 2012. The ACC’s decision to proceed with the case has caused significant concern among investors of the stock market–listed National Bank and sent shockwaves through the banking sector. The case will be formally filed with the relevant police station or court in the near future.