The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has initiated an investigation against AKM Maksudul Islam, the project director of the Third Terminal Project at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, and others over allegations of embezzlement and irregularities. 

ACC Director General Md. Akhtar Hossain confirmed the matter on Sunday (December 29).

A national daily reported allegations of abuse of power, corruption, and forgery, claiming that the project’s cost was inflated from BDT 7,000 crore to BDT 22,000 crore. Allegations include misappropriation of funds by falsely importing locally available materials, irregularities in soil testing, misappropriation of BDT 900 crore through design changes, selling major works to other contractors for commission, using substandard equipment from China and Korea instead of European standards, irregularities in ceiling works, and wastage of BDT 12 crore for unnecessary tasks allegedly done to appease a former prime minister.

Md. Akhtar Hossain stated that the allegations are specific and evidence-based, prompting the ACC to begin an investigation into the matter.

BDST: 1653 HRS, DEC 28, 2024
MSK