The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has sought details of more than 200 bank accounts belonging to individuals and businesses suspected of financing activities aimed at creating instability in the garment sector.

Two intelligence units of the NBR have sent instructions to banks and financial institutions to identify the accounts, examine transactions and take necessary measures, including suspending accounts where required.

According to NBR officials, around 40 to 50 social media groups were formed to fuel unrest in the garment sector. Intelligence officials have identified 200 to 250 people allegedly linked to these groups. Some reportedly received financial support through mobile banking services, while others were given cash.

The NBR is seeking bank statements to trace the sources of funds and examine transaction patterns.

Most of those on the investigation list are reportedly associated with the ousted Awami League government. They include former ministers, former lawmakers and influential businesspeople, along with some of their family members.

The list includes Bahaunddin Nasim, Salman F Rahman, Abdus Salam Murshedy, Tipu Munshi, Shahriar Alam, Nasrul Hamid and Tazul Islam. Business figures named include Faizur Rahman Badal of Tushuka Group, Abdus Salam of Well Group, Khosru Chowdhury of Nipa Group and AKM Mosharraf Hossain of Standard Group. Former BGMEA president SM Mannan Kochi is also on the list.

A senior NBR official said banks had been instructed to identify and suspend the accounts concerned based on information provided by several government agencies. Transaction records of some companies have also been requested.

The official said the move was part of an investigation into allegations that the individuals and businesses financed activities to destabilise the garment sector.

However, being named on the list or having bank account details requested does not establish guilt. The allegations will be determined through investigation.