ACC recommends 6 cases against 13, including former health minister
Published :
Updated :
For all latest news, follow The Financial Express Google News channel.
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) found evidence of widespread irregularities and corruption in the procurement and supply of low-quality masks, PPE, hospital equipment, and related services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The commission says millions of taka were misappropriated through these activities.
The ACC has identified the involvement of 13 individuals, including the former minister of health and family welfare Dr Zahid Malek and project director Dr Iqbal Kabir.
It has recommended filing six separate cases against them.
According to an ACC source, a report has been submitted to the commission after completing the investigation. The cases will be filed after approval from the commission.
The ACC found that under the “COVID-19 Emergency Response and Pandemic Preparedness” project of the Directorate General of Health Services, large sums of money worth Tk 122 million were embezzled through different procurement packages.
These included the purchase of masks, gloves, hospital beds, thermometers, mobile apps, web applications, and TV awareness campaigns.
Under package GD-01, irregularities were found in the procurement of KN-95 masks, N-95 masks, and hand gloves, with evidence of misappropriation of Tk 3.47 crore. Relevant legal sections, including Penal Code 409, 420, 120B, 109 and Section 5(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1947, have been cited.
In package GD-13, Tk 14.8 million was allegedly misappropriated in the purchase of electric hospital beds. Under GD-08, about Tk 21.6 million was misused through overpayment for thermometers, masks, and other medical equipment. Another Tk 9.39 million was misappropriated under GD-05 for mask procurement.
The investigation also found misuse of power and favoritism in awarding contracts. In package SD-02, irregularities occurred in producing TV awareness clips. It is alleged that Tk 6.27 million was paid without broadcasting the content
Irregularities were found in developing the ‘Corona BD’ mobile app and the ‘National Corona Care System’ web application under package SD-01, where Tk 33.2 million was misappropriated through overpayment.
The ACC said clear evidence of embezzlement was found in all six allegations, and reports have been submitted accordingly. Cases will be filed after approval.
The other accused include former additional director general Dr Tahmina Johra, Prof Dr Nasima Sultana, and several other officials and businesspersons involved in the procurement process.