Serious allegations have surfaced against former Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Asif Nazrul, accusing him and his wife of laundering approximately Tk 140 billion (around $1.3 billion) over the past 18 months.
Nazrul assumed office on August 5, 2024, following a student-led mass uprising, pledging to restore justice and institutional integrity. However, investigative findings now suggest that during his tenure, an alleged financial syndicate operated under the cover of official authority, with his wife, Sheila Ahmed, reportedly playing a central role in managing illicit transactions.
Wife Allegedly Managed Financial Operations
According to ministry insiders and intelligence sources, while Nazrul handled policy decisions and file approvals, the financial side of the operation—including collection, allocation, and overseas transfers—was allegedly supervised by his wife.
Sources claim that no major appointment, transfer, or legal settlement involving influential business figures was finalized without her clearance. Funds were allegedly directed primarily to accounts in Dubai and Switzerland rather than processed domestically.
A source within the alleged syndicate, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, “No file was signed until confirmation came that the money had been secured abroad.”
Alleged Deal Involving Business Tycoon
One of the most controversial claims involves businessman Dilip Kumar Agarwal, owner of Diamond World. Allegations suggest that he received legal protection and relief from pending cases in exchange for a payment of approximately Tk 7 billion.
According to sources, the transaction was reportedly routed through a Dubai-based bank, with the financial arrangements overseen directly by Sheila Ahmed. A ministry official alleged that influential individuals were initially pressured with legal threats before being offered negotiated settlements in exchange for substantial payments.
Overseas Assets and Accounts
Investigative sources further claim that multiple bank accounts and assets linked to Sheila Ahmed and close relatives have been identified in Switzerland, London, and Malaysia. A significant portion of the alleged Tk 140 billion is believed to have been transferred abroad prior to the adviser’s departure from office.
The accusations have sparked widespread calls for an independent investigation and efforts to recover any illicitly transferred funds. Political analysts argue that if proven true, the allegations represent a serious breach of public trust, particularly given the post-uprising expectations of accountability and reform.
As of now, neither Nazrul nor his representatives have publicly responded to the allegations. Authorities have yet to announce a formal inquiry.
