ACC launches probe into Ctg port chairman over alleged power abuse, embezzlement
Inquiry team formed, chairman asked to submit documents by 28 July
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has launched a formal inquiry into Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) Chairman Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman over allegations of abuse of power, embezzlement, money laundering, and illegal accumulation of assets.
According to a letter issued by ACC Assistant Director (Inquiry and Investigation-5) Md Naushad Ali on 10 July, the commission has formed a two-member inquiry team to investigate the complaints.
Naushad leads the inquiry team, with Deputy Assistant Director Md Imran Akon serving as a member.
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Confirming the development, Naushad told TBS, "A letter detailing the allegations and requesting relevant documents was issued on 10 July."
The letter notes that the requested documents are essential for a proper and thorough investigation into the complaints.
The ACC has asked the port chairman to submit various documents related to the allegations by 28 July.
The documents include records of approval letters, financial allocations, tender documents, evaluation committee reports, work orders, and bills connected to the Karnaphuli River dredging project.
Additionally, the ACC has requested attested photocopies of passports, national ID cards, and birth registration documents of the chairman's wife and children.
Moniruzzaman is currently abroad on an official visit. Attempts to reach him for comment via WhatsApp calls and messages went unanswered.
The Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General has once again raised serious concerns over widespread financial irregularities at the CPA, with its audit report for the 2023-24 fiscal year identifying 72 major anomalies involving around Tk1,314 crore.
Among these, 44 incidents involving Tk265 crore were related to tender manipulation and corruption in contract management, the report revealed.
Insiders alleged that a powerful syndicate, which gained strength during the Awami League government, continues to operate in the absence of proper supervision. The group is reportedly rigging tenders to benefit preferred companies, frequently sidelining the lowest bidders and inflating project costs.
For instance, in the Laldia Container Terminal-2 project, the contract was awarded allegedly by inflating costs by approximately Tk10 crore through tender rigging.
Sources within the port say this syndicate changes tender terms at will, disqualifies competent firms, and ensures contracts go to companies aligned with their interests. This has led to persistent wastage of public funds and growing fears that such practices will continue unless addressed.
