ACC launches probe into Covid-19 vaccine graft allegations against Salman

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has initiated an investigation into allegations of financial irregularities involving Beximco Pharma Vice-Chairman Salman F Rahman. 

He is accused of embezzling Taka 22,000 crore in the procurement of Covid-19 vaccines during the pandemic.  

ACC Director General (Prevention) Md Akhter Hossain confirmed the investigation at a press briefing held at ACC headquarters today. According to him, the cost of distributing the Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine, imported from India, was reported at Taka 40,000 crore, while the actual expenditure was Taka 18,000 crore. The alleged misappropriation of the remaining Taka 22,000 crore has been linked to Salman F Rahman and his syndicate.  

The ACC had previously launched an inquiry into allegations of illicit wealth accumulation by Salman F Rahman on December 19 last year. This latest probe adds to the ongoing scrutiny of his financial dealings.