icddr,b Named in Notorious Epstein Files

Following the U.S. Department of Justice’s release of millions of new files related to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein on Friday (January 30), a global firestorm has erupted as more influential figures and institutions are linked to the late financier.

Among the latest revelations is an email mentioning icddr,b, Bangladesh’s internationally renowned health research institution.

According to the unsealed documents, icddr,b was highlighted in an email sent to Epstein by a close associate on April 17, 2014. The email, titled "Gut Microbiology-icddr,b," described the center as a "highly reputable institution" in Bangladesh and proposed a long-term investment in probiotic research.

The communication suggested establishing a public-private partnership centered around icddr,b. It noted that a relatively low investment could secure a 3% guaranteed profit from future probiotics or related products developed through the research.

Furthermore, the associate pointed out that because icddr,b holds charitable status, any such investment could potentially qualify for tax exemptions under the U.S. 501(c)(3) framework.

The massive document cache also includes a separate email indicating that a close associate of Epstein traveled to Bangladesh and India on January 4, 2010. However, the files do not provide specific details regarding the purpose or activities of that visit.

While the documents show that associates were pitching icddr,b as a viable investment vehicle to Epstein, there is currently no evidence in the files suggesting the institution itself was aware of or complicit in Epstein’s criminal activities.