Play store
Bangladesh Bank (BB) has suspended one of its officials over allegations of involvement in fraud, illegal betting and cryptocurrency transactions.
The suspended official, Md Rakibul Hasan Khan Rocky, is an assistant director at the central bank’s head office. The suspension took effect immediately following an order issued on July 19.
According to the order, the action was taken under Section 45(5) of the Bangladesh Bank Staff Regulations, 2003, following the enactment of a new law addressing online gaming and related offences.
During the suspension period, Rakibul will receive a subsistence allowance in accordance with Clause 21(a) of the Bangladesh Bank Administrative Guidelines, 2003.
Confirming the development, Bangladesh Bank spokesperson Arief Hossain Khan said the official faces serious allegations, including possible involvement in cybercrime and illegal betting activities.
“As per the rules, if a police case is filed against an employee, the central bank places the person under suspension,” he told The Financial Express.
Last week, a team from the Detective Branch (DB) of police, led by DB chief Md Shafiqul Islam, conducted a raid at Bangladesh Bank headquarters to arrest the official. However, he allegedly fled after being tipped off.
Police have yet to arrest him, and he remains at large.
According to sources at Bangladesh Bank and the Detective Branch, the official allegedly operated multiple bank accounts through which millions of taka were transacted. Investigators also suspect him of involvement in illegal online betting and cryptocurrency transactions.
Authorities have not yet disclosed further details about the ongoing investigation.
