ACC followed all legal procedures in ex-IGP case: DG

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) said on Sunday that it had followed all necessary legal procedures in connection with the case involving former inspector general of police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed. 

Regarding reports of Benazir’s release in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the commission said it also learned about the development through media reports.

The remarks were made by ACC Director General (Special Investigation) Mir Md Zainul Abedin Shebly while speaking to journalists at the ACC head office in the capital.

Responding to a question, he said the commission had not received any official information regarding the former IGP's release.

“Just as you have learned about it from the media, we have also come to know through media reports. Whatever legal steps are necessary in this regard will certainly be taken by the relevant authorities,” he said.

Read More

Law firm hired to seek cancellation of Benazir's bail: Minister

Journalists also asked how Benazir Ahmed had been released despite measures taken by the Ministry of Home Affairs based on the ACC's recommendations, and whether there had been any shortcomings on the part of the commission.

In response, Zainul Abedin said there was no lapse on the ACC’s part, adding that the commission had taken all actions required under the law.

Explaining the process, he said that under the Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) framework for international investigations and legal cooperation, the Ministry of Home Affairs serves as Bangladesh's central authority. 

The ACC submits its requests to the ministry, which then forwards them to the relevant foreign country through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he said.

“Whatever documents and requests we were required to send, we had sent. Legal matters are handled jointly by all the relevant authorities.”

Later, journalists asked, based on his long professional experience, what might have prompted the UAE authorities to release the former IGP, according to media reports.

In reply, the ACC director general said it would not be appropriate to comment without knowing the full details of the matter.

Benazir was released from a jail in Dubai after being granted conditional bail following his arrest in the UAE.

A UAE court approved his bail petition on 27 July. He was released from custody on 30 July after completing the necessary legal formalities.