Bangladesh Seizes $1.3 Million in Gold from Former PM Hasina's Bank Lockers
Anti-corruption authorities in Bangladesh have recently announced the significant seizure of approximately 10 kilograms (22 pounds) of gold, valued at around $1.3 million, from bank lockers linked to the ousted prime minister, Sheikh Hasina. This discovery comes amidst ongoing political instability and intensified scrutiny of the former leader's assets.
Officials from the Central Intelligence Cell (CIC) of the National Board of Revenue confirmed that the substantial haul was made after executing a court order to open lockers that had been initially seized in September. A senior CIC official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that nearly 9.7 kilograms of gold, encompassing various forms such as coins, bars, and jewellery, were found to belong to the former prime minister. This operation marks a key development in the authorities' efforts to investigate alleged illicit financial activities.
Investigators are primarily focusing on accusations that Sheikh Hasina failed to deposit several gifts she received during her tenure as prime minister into the state treasury, known as "Toshakhana," a legal requirement for public officials. Furthermore, the National Board of Revenue is actively probing potential tax evasion by Hasina and is meticulously examining whether the recovered gold was accurately declared in her official tax filings, adding another layer to the serious charges she faces.
This incident unfolds against a backdrop of deep political turmoil gripping Bangladesh since the conclusion of Hasina's leadership, with violence frequently disrupting campaigning for elections anticipated in February 2026. Adding to her legal woes, the International Crimes Tribunal earlier this month handed down a death sentence to Hasina in connection with a deadly crackdown on a student-led uprising. The United Nations has reported that up to 1,400 individuals were killed during that period as Hasina reportedly sought to maintain her grip on power.
