Islami Bank’s Tk4cr transaction suspended in Natore after BNP candidate’s complaint

A suspicious transaction involving nearly Tk4 crore sent to Islami Bank Natore branch through Sonali Bank Natore branch has been suspended following a complaint by a BNP candidate.

The transaction was halted on Tuesday afternoon after a complaint was lodged by the BNP candidate for Natore-2 (Sadar and Naldanga) constituency Ruhul Quddus Talukder Dulu.

Following the complaint, the returning officer contacted the concerned bank officials, informed their higher authorities and instructed them to take necessary measures. The transaction was subsequently suspended.

Ruhul Quddus Talukdar said withdrawing such a large amount of money just a day before the election was suspicious and could be used for vote-buying.

“Suspending the transaction was justified in the interest of a fair election,” he said.

However, Islami Bank Natore branch official (AVP) Rezaul Karim said a Tk4 crore transaction was not unusual for the bank. He explained that banks would remain closed during the election, and the funds were requisitioned to operate an ATM booth, adding that there was nothing suspicious about the transaction.

Sonali Bank Natore principal branch official (AGM) Ujjal Kumar said they had consulted higher authorities after receiving the complaint and took action in line with their decision.

Natore Deputy Commissioner and Returning Officer Asma Shahin said a candidate had lodged a complaint terming an Islami Bank transaction suspicious, and necessary steps were taken accordingly.