Bangladesh to launch $5 billion graft probe against Sheikh Hasina, family over alleged embezzlement in nuclear power plant

An anti-corruption investigation has been initiated in Bangladesh against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her family in relation to allegations of embezzling USD 5 billion from the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant project. The inquiry follows claims that funds from the project were illicitly transferred to a Malaysian bank.

The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, Bangladesh’s first nuclear power plant, is being constructed 160 km west of Dhaka, with significant involvement from Indian companies. Rosatom, the Russian state-run nuclear corporation, is overseeing the construction.

Also Read:Bangladesh requests Sheikh Hasina’s extradition from India – Here’s what has happened so far

In addition to Hasina, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy and niece Tulip Siddiq, the UK’s Treasury minister, have also been questioned in connection with the corruption allegations. The accusations stem from an alleged transfer of USD 5 billion from the Rooppur project to an overseas account, as raised by Bobby Hajjaj, Chairman of the National Democratic Movement (NDM).

This development comes just days after the Bangladesh High Court issued a rule asking why the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) should not be declared in breach of its duties for failing to investigate the matter. The court is scrutinising the inaction regarding the alleged transfer of funds by Hasina, Joy, and Siddiq.

Also Read:Bangladesh ex-PM Sheikh Hasina now on Interpol radar – Here’s why

Rosatom has strongly rejected these allegations, describing them as “provocative statements” aimed at discrediting the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant project. The Russian corporation asserted that it upholds a transparent procurement system and is committed to combating corruption across all its projects.

This case represents a major escalation in the scrutiny of Sheikh Hasina and her family. Hasina, who has been residing in India since fleeing Bangladesh following large student-led protests in August, along with her sister Rehana, is already facing charges related to “crimes against humanity” and genocide. Arrest warrants have been issued for Hasina and several former officials, with ongoing investigations into their involvement in various criminal activities, including murders linked to the protests.

Rosatom has vowed to defend its reputation in court, stating that the Rooppur project is essential for addressing Bangladesh’s energy needs and improving the nation’s well-being.