ACC Opens Probe into Shakib's Alleged Illicit Wealth

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has initiated an investigation into star cricketer Shakib Al Hasan, former brand ambassador of the ACC and Magura-1 MP, over allegations of possessing wealth beyond his known income sources and involvement in money laundering. 

A two-member team, led by ACC Deputy Director Mahbubul Alam and Assistant Director Md Ashikur Rahman, was formed on April 9 to probe the claims. An official order has been issued to investigate the matter and submit a report.

ACC spokesperson Akhtarul Islam confirmed the investigation’s initiation but declined to share further details.

A senior ACC official revealed that a letter had been sent to the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) requesting an investigation report regarding Shakib, who is 38 years old.

On April 6, ACC Chairman Mohammad Abdul Momen stated that multiple allegations of corruption and irregularities against Shakib were under review. The ACC had signed an agreement with him in 2018, appointing him as their brand ambassador. However, following allegations of irregularities, the ACC decided to part ways with him in 2022.

Shakib, elected to the 12th National Parliament as an Awami League candidate, has been at the center of various allegations, including a petition filed on August 28 last year by lawyer Milhanur Rahman Naomi. The petition accuses Shakib of involvement in stock market fraud, banned gambling businesses, gold smuggling, embezzlement from crab traders, corruption in cricket, and concealing assets in election affidavits.

The Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) froze Shakib’s bank accounts on November 8, 2024, and he has also been implicated in a murder case related to the death of garment worker Rubel in Dhaka’s Adabor area on August 5, the day of the government’s fall. Additionally, a legal notice has been sent to the Bangladesh Cricket Board demanding Shakib’s removal from the national team and his return to the country for investigation.