Misappropriating Tk 9 crore through loan fraud

A former branch manager of Ansar-VDP Unnayan Bank, Alamgir Hossain, has been arrested by the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) over allegations of embezzling approximately Tk 9.25 crore from two branches in Noakhali. The arrest took place on Saturday night at a residence in Chattogram.

According to RAB, Alamgir Hossain allegedly exploited forged national identity cards and fake mobile numbers under various individuals’ names to secure loans, gradually siphoning off large sums of money. An internal investigation conducted by the bank confirmed irregularities, prompting further scrutiny. Subsequently, on 20 October, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) examined the bank’s documents and filed two cases against Hossain with the Noakhali Special Senior Judge Court. Following confirmation of the allegations, he had already been dismissed from his position.

Mohammad Faruk Ahmed, deputy director of the ACC’s Noakhali district office, confirmed that two cases were lodged against Hossain for misappropriating over Tk 9 crore. “With the assistance of RAB, the accused was apprehended and presented before the court,” he stated.

Md. Sujon Mia, deputy director and district commandant of Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party in Noakhali, explained that Hossain had withdrawn money by fabricating loans in the names of multiple members. He added that both the ACC and the bank’s internal inquiry had verified the fraudulent activities.

A summary of the case is provided below:

AccusedPosition HeldAlleged MisappropriationMethod UsedLegal Action
Alamgir HossainFormer Branch Manager, Ansar-VDP Unnayan BankTk 9.25 croreFake loans using forged IDs and mobile numbersTwo cases filed; arrested by RAB; dismissed from bank

The case has drawn attention to the need for stricter internal controls within financial institutions and the importance of timely oversight by regulatory authorities. Both the ACC and RAB emphasised their commitment to investigating financial crimes and bringing perpetrators to justice.

Authorities have urged other banks to strengthen verification processes for loan approvals to prevent similar instances of embezzlement in the future. Meanwhile, investigations into any additional irregularities at the affected branches continue.

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