Tk250-Crore Share Scam: Documents of Shakib, 14 Others Seized

Although cricketer Shakib Al Hasan recently called for investigations into stock market corruption in several interviews, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has seized various documents related to him and 14 other accused from the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) as part of a probe into a Tk250-crore share scam.

The ACC investigation officer recently seized the relevant probe reports and necessary documents from the BSEC in connection with the highly discussed market manipulation.

According to the case filed by the ACC in June last year, Shakib Al Hasan and his associates embezzled Tk256 crore by luring general investors. Among the accused, Shakib faces direct allegations of embezzling Tk2.95 crore.

The case statement notes that the all-rounder invested in the shares of Paramount Insurance Company Limited, Crystal Insurance Company Limited, and Sonali Paper and Board Mills Limited through the controversial market manipulator Abul Khair Hiru.

The allegations further state that he later became actively involved in market manipulation, defrauding and enticing investors. Additionally, the ACC is gathering documents regarding allegations of illegal wealth accumulation against Shakib.

Meanwhile, in a recent interview, Shakib stated, "Sometimes it appears in the news that there are many problems, but no one can provide details. Someone said, 'There is manipulation in the share market.' So what is it? Has anyone been able to prove anything in the last two years? There is a political case, a murder case. That too hasn't progressed at all in a year and a half!"

"And there is a check bounce case, which is a very basic thing. If you fail to pay an installment, the bank files a case using the signed checks they hold. That is a very normal matter and it can be rescheduled; the case gets closed once the money is paid. But to do that, they have kept my bank accounts frozen."

He questioned, "Why freeze the bank accounts? Perhaps they felt it was necessary for the sake of the investigation. Now that investigation has been going on for a year and a half! They haven't found anything yet! I believe there is no chance of finding anything."

Shakib emphasized that the allegations against him should be investigated swiftly. He remarked, "Listening to people makes it sound like I have thousands of problems and it will take decades to solve them. In reality, if there is a willingness, how long can it take? Investigate and take action if guilt is proven. If nothing is found in the investigation, give a clearance, give a release. If my accounts are reopened, I can reschedule and deposit the money tomorrow, and they will withdraw the case the day after!"