Administration seeks explanation over Tk15 lakh found in BNP leader Anee's vehicle in Lakshmipur

Authorities in Lakshmipur have sought an explanation after Tk15 lakh in cash was recovered from a vehicle used by BNP Joint Secretary General Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee, a candidate in the Lakshmipur-3 (Sadar) constituency.

The cash was seized during an operation by the army this evening (11 February) in the Jhumur Golchattar area of Sadar upazila, said Executive Magistrate and member of the Election Inquiry and Investigation Committee Tahmina Akter Nowrin.

According to officials, two individuals were detained in connection with the incident and issued show-cause notices, asking them to provide an explanation within 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, around 9pm, Anee addressed the issue in a Facebook Live, stating that the Tk15 lakh was allocated for constituency-based election expenses. 

He claimed that after providing the necessary account of the funds, the authorities released his two agents.

Administration sources said the vehicle from which the money was recovered had long been used for Anee's election-related activities and was being operated at the time by his personal assistant and election agent, Badrul Alam Shyamal.

Tahmina said an investigation into the matter is ongoing, adding that the detained assistant has been asked to submit an explanation within the stipulated time.

Meanwhile, District BNP Joint Convener Hasibur Rahman told Prothom Alo, "We are allowed to spend a maximum of Tk40 lakh as election expenses. Tk15 lakh of that amount was in the vehicle.

"A show-cause notice has been issued in this regard. We will respond to it promptly."