IGP Benazir’s Unprecedented Corruption Raises Serious Concerns Over Integrity
Md Shah Alam :
IGP Benazir, once a powerful police officer and the esteemed head of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), was well-known for his speeches emphasizing the importance of honesty among police officers.
His public statements consistently highlighted the need for integrity within the force.
However, his career took a dramatic turn when revelations of his extensive corruption came to light.
This shocking news, which surfaced through various newspapers and social media platforms, horrified the public and other police officials alike.
Amidst the ensuing scandal and public outcry, Benazir and his family left the country, leaving behind a tarnished legacy and a demoralized police force grappling with the fallout of his actions.
On May 31, the Daily Prothom Alo reported that the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) discovered significant assets under the names of Benazir Ahmed and his family.
These assets include 621 bighas of land in Gopalganj, Madaripur, and Dhaka; four flats in Dhaka’s Gulshan area; 33 bank accounts; shares in 19 companies; three Beneficiary Owners (BO) accounts for share trading; and savings certificates worth 30 lakh takas.
Following an application from the ACC, the court ordered the seizure of these assets.
According to sources from law enforcement, Benazir Ahmed left the country on May 4, just before the court’s order was issued.
There are discussions in various circles suggesting that Benazir Ahmed is currently in Singapore. However, it has not been confirmed whether he is indeed in Singapore or another country.
Benazir Ahmed served as the Inspector General of Police (IGP) from April 15, 2020, to September 30, 2022. Before this, he held significant positions as the Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) and the Director General of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB).
In December 2021, the United States imposed sanctions on seven RAB officials, citing human rights violations. These sanctions targeted both current and former officials of RAB, including Benazir Ahmed.
At the time of the sanctions, Benazir Ahmed was serving as the IGP.
Despite the sanctions, Benazir Ahmed traveled to the United States, where he continued to exert his influence and power, a move that generated considerable controversy.
Ultimately, had he adhered to a path of integrity and honesty, he might have avoided the disgraceful circumstances he now faces.
“On June 1, 2024, the Daily Desh Rupantor headlines “Benjir Ahmed withdraws money from fixed deposit” Benjir Ahmed has withdrawn funds from his fixed deposits in the past one and a half months. It is estimated that approximately 60 crore taka was held in 15 accounts, which is no longer there.
Recent revelations about IGP Benazir’s alleged corruption underscore the adage, “Absolute power corrupts absolutely.”
This alarming case serves as a warning to other police officials about the importance of integrity in their roles. Once, many police officers were known for their honesty and dedication, but such examples are becoming rare.
This situation highlights the urgent need for stronger measures to prevent corruption and restore public trust in law enforcement.
In Bangladesh today, honest and righteous police officers are becoming increasingly rare.
Integrity and righteousness are now as elusive as gold.
However, many honest police officers still lead exemplary lives. We must not forget them and should highlight their integrity.
Instead of focusing on the negative example set by a corrupt figure like IGP Benazir, we should remember his ultimate downfall as a cautionary tale.
Honesty and Dignity in Law Enforcement: A Vanishing Virtue in Bangladesh- In our law enforcement agency, it’s vital to prioritize honesty and dignity in every aspect of professional conduct.
As guardians of our society’s integrity, especially after our hard-won liberation in 1971, law enforcement officers bear a profound responsibility.
Consider the Inspector General of Police (IGP), a figure of considerable influence. Instead of engaging in corruption, an IGP should exemplify honesty, inspiring others to follow suit. Even post-retirement, they should pursue honorable endeavors, avoiding corrupt practices that undermine their legacy and the well-being of society.
The corruption of IGP Benazir should serve as a cautionary tale, demonstrating that misuse of state power, even by high-ranking officials, will not go unpunished.
This example should deter others from engaging in corruption, reinforcing that integrity is crucial at all levels of authority. For honest officials, witnessing such consequences can prevent demoralization by showing that their commitment to honesty and human dignity is valued and protected.
To maintain resilience and morale among these officials, it is essential to ensure that corrupt actions are met with clear and firm punishment. Former IGP Benazir Ahmed’s corruption is being increasingly exposed, akin to the tales of Ali Baba. Amid these revelations, he has left the country with his family and currently faces no legal actions.
Finally, I want to say, if IGP Benazir had remained honest while holding the highest positions in the state, he wouldn’t have to face public scrutiny today.
Despite speaking about integrity, he failed to refrain from corruption and misuse of public resources himself.
This should serve as a proper investigation and a precedent for other officials, so that we can create a fair and just police force in the future.
(Author is a Teacher at CU and a PhD Researcher on Rohingya Refugees at IIUM, Malaysia. )
