Tk11,000cr Asif probe based on info, not AI issue
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has said its inquiry into former interim government adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain was initiated based on available information and an assessment of the allegations against him, not on an AI-generated or fabricated complaint.
ACC Secretary Saidur Rahman Khan made the remarks on Tuesday while responding to questions from journalists at a press briefing at the ACC media centre.
“The commission did not make the decision based on any concocted allegation,” he said.
His comments came after a claim that Asif, who is also a spokesperson for the National Citizen Party, had allegedly siphoned Tk 11,000 crore abroad was circulated months before the ACC launched its inquiry.
Fact-checking organisation Rumour Scanner reported on Monday that the allegation had been circulating since January through what it described as pro-Awami League propaganda pages.
It also said earlier reports carrying the allegation were likely generated or assisted by artificial intelligence.
Saidur said the ACC had decided to launch the inquiry after examining the allegations and assessing the information available to the commission.
“Based on the truthfulness of the allegations and the information available, the commission took the decision to conduct an inquiry and proceeded with the next steps,” he said.
He said the inquiry is currently underway.
The ACC secretary added that the commission would take legal action if the inquiry found evidence supporting the allegations.
“If necessary, we will also take steps to send requests for mutual legal assistance in criminal matters regarding assets held abroad,” he said in response to a question.
The ACC recently launched an inquiry into allegations that Asif had laundered Tk 11,000 crore abroad and accumulated wealth through irregularities and abuse of power. The allegations also include alleged irregularities in appointments and postings at different government agencies.
Asif has denied the allegations, saying that repeatedly linking his name to corruption allegations was intended to create a negative public perception and tarnish his image.
On Monday, he challenged anyone to prove that he had invested even Tk 1 abroad, saying he would quit politics if such evidence were established.
“Prove that Asif Mahmud invested even one taka abroad or bought a villa, land or even a speck of dust outside the country,” the former interim government adviser said during a Facebook Live session on Monday evening.
The ACC has not disclosed a timeline for completing the inquiry. The commission said any further action, including possible legal proceedings or requests for assistance from foreign authorities, would depend on evidence and findings that emerge during the investigation.
As the inquiry continues, the allegations against Asif remain unproven, while the former adviser has maintained that the claims are intended to damage his reputation and political standing.
