ACC launches inquiry into Chattogram Port chief Moniruzzaman

He is accused of abuse of power, embezzlement, money laundering, and amassing illicit wealth

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has launched an inquiry into Chattogram Port Authority Chairman SM Moniruzzaman over allegations of embezzlement, money laundering, and accumulation of wealth beyond known sources of income.

ACC Director General Md Akhtar Hossain confirmed the development on Tuesday, saying the preliminary complaint involves abuse of official authority and severe financial misconduct.

Assistant Director Md Naushad Ali has been tasked with leading the inquiry team, ACC sources said.

Naushad has already issued a letter to the Chattogram Port Authority requesting relevant documentation. The letter seeks records related to the dredging project on the Karnaphuli River, including approvals, funding, tender processes, and contracts. It also requests personal documents of Moniruzzaman and his family.

The national anti-graft agency set Jul 28 as the deadline to submit all requested documents.

Rear Admiral (retd) SM Moniruzzaman took charge as the chairman of Chattogram Port Authority on Aug 12, 2024.

Before his appointment to the post, he was serving as commander of the Bangladesh Navy (BN) fleet.

According to the Chattogram Port Authority, Moniruzzaman previously held several key positions: managing director of Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC), managing director of Dockyard and Engineering Works (DEW), director general of MIS at Sena Kalyan Sangstha, and chief of staff of the Chattogram Naval Area.

Born in Kushtia, Moniruzzaman graduated from Cumilla Cadet College in 1987 and joined the Bangladesh Navy in 1988 as an officer cadet.

He was commissioned into the Executive Branch in 1990.