Former ACC chairman Iqbal Mahmood is set to come under investigation

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has decided to open a formal investigation into its former chairman, Iqbal Mahmood.

A senior ACC official confirmed the move on Monday, noting that this is the first time in the country’s history that a former ACC chief is being investigated.

According to ACC sources, allegations have surfaced of a close business nexus between the family of controversial health-sector contractor Motazzerul Islam, known as Mithu, and former ACC chairman Iqbal Mahmood. Mahmood’s brother, Sadiq Mahmood Bakul, is said to have been a business partner of Mithu. Leveraging this relationship, the two allegedly engaged in extensive irregularities and corruption in the health sector. Due to Iqbal Mahmood’s influence, both Mithu and Bakul had reportedly remained beyond reach for years.

Sources also allege that contractor Mithu gifted Iqbal Mahmood two flats in Gulshan, one of Dhaka’s most affluent neighbourhoods.

Key information pointing to Mahmood’s involvement emerged during Mithu’s remand following his 11 September arrest in cases related to health-sector graft, money laundering, and connections with influential figures. ACC insiders say this evidence prompted the decision to initiate a probe into the former chairman.

The ACC is additionally examining several other allegations against Mahmood, including accepting bribes, possessing assets disproportionate to known income, laundering money abroad, and financing a home in Canada with illicit funds.

He is also accused of helping shield those implicated in the BASIC Bank scandal, showing reluctance to pursue corruption cases involving Biman Bangladesh Airlines, and allowing senior Awami League leaders accused of corruption to go unpunished.

ACC Director General (Money Laundering) Md Mokammel Haque said that while no investigation officer has been assigned yet, the commission has resolved to look into all allegations.

However, ACC Director General (Prevention) and spokesperson Md Akhter Hossain said he was unaware of the development.

Iqbal Mahmood served as the ACC’s fifth chairman from 14 March 2016 until completing his term on 9 March 2021.