ACC starts probe into HSIA 3rd terminal graft claims

Staff Reporter :

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) said that they will start investigation on Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) corruption as the allegation raised over irregularities, corruption and fraud linked to the construction of the third terminal of the HSIA.

On Sunday, ACC Director General (Prevention) Md Akhtar Hossain said this while briefing reporters outside the ACC headquarters in the capital, stating that project director AKM Maksudul Islam, along with others, is accused of severe misconduct.

The allegations include abuse of power, fraudulent activities and extensive corruption.

Among the charges is the escalation of the project’s estimated cost from Tk7,000 crore to Tk22,000 crore.

Reports also suggest that Tk900 crore was embezzled through design alterations during the soil testing phase.

Further accusations include selling three key segments of the project to other contractors through commission trading, using low-quality parts and equipment from China and Korea instead of the European-grade materials specified in the tender and widespread irregularities in the sealing work.

The ACC also disclosed that a Tk400 crore fraud was allegedly committed through syndication, while Tk12 crore was wasted on unnecessary expenses aimed at appeasing the former prime minister.

The under-construction terminal was inaugurated by the ousted prime minister on October 23, 2023, with plans for it to become operational by October 2024.

Akhtar Hossain said the ACC is committed to uncovering the truth behind these allegations and ensuring accountability for any wrongdoing.