Summary:
- A Dhaka court has imposed a travel ban on former DSCC mayor Sayeed Khokon, his wife, mother, and brother over corruption allegations.
- The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) cited suspicious financial transactions and misuse of political influence to amass wealth.
- The ACC expressed concerns that the individuals might flee the country, hindering ongoing investigations.
- Sayeed Khokon has faced multiple corruption accusations since leaving office, including embezzlement and financial misconduct.
A Dhaka court has imposed a travel ban on former Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) mayor Sayeed Khokon, his wife Farhana Sayeed, his mother Shahana Hanif, and his brother Javed Ahmed amid allegations of large-scale corruption and financial irregularities. The ruling was issued on December 23, 2024, by Judge Md Ibrahim Mia of the Dhaka Metropolitan Senior Special Judge’s Court following a petition filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).
The ACC’s petition, submitted by Deputy Director Md Masudur Rahman, cited suspicious financial transactions in the bank accounts of the individuals named. The ACC alleged that Sayeed Khokon and his family members had exploited their political influence to accumulate significant wealth both domestically and internationally. The petition further accused the former mayor of engaging in widespread corruption during his tenure, implicating other DSCC officials as well.
In light of these allegations, the ACC expressed concerns that the individuals might attempt to leave the country, potentially obstructing ongoing investigations. Prosecutor Mir Ahmed Ali Salam represented the ACC during the hearing, after which the court approved the travel ban to ensure that investigations proceed without interference.
Sayeed Khokon, who served as DSCC mayor from 2015 to 2020, has faced multiple accusations of corruption since leaving office. Allegations include embezzlement of funds from shopkeepers in Dhaka South City Corporation and misappropriation of over Tk 1,000 crore from Islami Insurance Bangladesh Ltd., where he reportedly manipulated board appointments to benefit his family. His tenure has been marred by controversies involving misuse of authority and financial misconduct.
This travel ban comes at a time when Khokon has been in hiding following political turmoil earlier this year that led to the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government. His house was reportedly ransacked during this period. The ACC’s investigation into Khokon’s activities underscores its broader efforts to address corruption and uphold accountability among public officials.
The case highlights ongoing challenges in combating corruption within Bangladesh’s political and administrative systems. As investigations continue, further revelations may emerge regarding the extent of alleged financial improprieties linked to Sayeed Khokon and his associates.
Source: TBS News
