Corruption Scandal Rocks Chittagong Port Authority
Allegations of embezzlement and corruption have emerged against Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman, the Chairman of the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA), involving approximately Tk 486 crore linked to a ship procurement project. The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has uncovered preliminary evidence suggesting a significant financial scandal within Bangladesh’s maritime sector. The investigation also implicates several associates, raising concerns about widespread corruption affecting multiple ports.
Investigation Uncovers Major Financial Irregularities
The ACC’s investigation centers on a controversial decision made during Rear Admiral Moniruzzaman’s tenure as managing director of the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC) from 2022 to 2023. Initially, a plan was set to procure six ships for a total cost of Tk 2,486 crore. However, only four ships were acquired, leading to allegations that the remaining Tk 486 crore was embezzled. The ACC has gathered initial evidence supporting these claims, indicating a serious breach of trust and financial misconduct.
Further complicating the situation, the name of former Barishal City Corporation mayor AK Abdullah Khokon, also known as Khokon Serniabat, has surfaced as an alleged accomplice in this corruption scheme. Reports suggest that Jahangir Hossain, the education and commerce affairs secretary of the Khulna city unit of the Awami League, played a role in facilitating these corrupt activities. Investigators have revealed that this syndicate’s corrupt practices extend beyond Chittagong Port, affecting operations at Mongla Port and various BSC projects.
Significant irregularities have also been identified in the Tk 1,538 crore Pashur Channel conservation dredging project at Mongla Port. Businesspeople have reported feeling intimidated and deprived of opportunities due to the influence of this corrupt network. Complaints have been lodged with the Mongla Port Authority and various intelligence agencies, prompting further investigations into the alleged misconduct.
ACC Takes Action Amidst Growing Allegations
In response to the mounting allegations, the ACC has formed a dedicated investigation team led by Assistant Director Md Nawshab Ali. The team has compiled a comprehensive report utilizing data from various sources, revealing clear evidence of financial inconsistencies and irregularities in the ship procurement project. The report highlights inflated transport costs for crude oil, resulting in substantial financial losses.
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Investigators have also traced connections between Moniruzzaman’s family and suspicious financial transactions, including overseas assets and money laundering activities. Allegations suggest that funds from the procurement project were used to acquire properties abroad, with specific investments linked to individuals associated with the chairman.
As the investigation progresses, the ACC has restructured its team to delve deeper into the allegations of corruption, irregularities in contracts, and illicit wealth accumulation. Md Nazmus Sadat, the newly appointed team leader, confirmed that sufficient evidence has been gathered to support claims of abuse of power and financial misconduct against the CPA chairman. He assured that action would be taken based on the findings, with a final report expected upon completion of the inquiry.
While the CPA Secretary (acting) Syed Refayet Hamim stated that the matter is under investigation, he refrained from providing further comments. Attempts to reach Rear Admiral Moniruzzaman for his response have been unsuccessful, leaving the situation shrouded in uncertainty as the ACC continues its thorough investigation.
