Rangamati, July 17 (V7N) — The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) conducted a major operation in Baghai­chari Upazila on Wednesday over allegations of large-scale embezzlement, irregularities in grant distribution, and extortion of funds from local businesses, the district coordination office confirmed.

ACC Assistant Director Mohammad Farhad Hossain led a joint enforcement team from the Rangamati Integrated Office. Acting on complaints, the team first attempted to locate the Upazila Project Implementation Officer (PIO) at the project office, but the official was absent. They then informed Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Shirin Akter about the operation.

When official record documentation was requested, the UNO replied that she would provide it only with a formal written demand and higher authority approval. The ACC team submitted a written request and was told that records would be available the next day. The PIO’s assistant shared relevant Cabinet-approved project documents with the enforcement team thereafter.

A preliminary review of the documents revealed serious discrepancies. The team later conducted field inspections of various development projects, including housing schemes, brick kilns, and tobacco-drying furnaces.

The ACC will prepare a comprehensive report after further investigation and submit it to the commission.

Unofficial sources indicate that Shirin Akter, a 35th BCS cadre officer appointed in September 2023, has faced ongoing allegations including corruption, political bias, and extortion. Reports suggest she has used influence in awarding contracts for ADP projects, demanded kickbacks from construction work and tube wells, and extorted funds from brick kiln owners. Further, she allegedly collected levies during national observances from businesses and market committees.

During Mujib Year, although 208 deep tube wells were allocated across Baghai­chari, kickbacks were reportedly collected for every installation. Allegations further include irregularities in flood relief distribution and extortion from beneficiaries of a one-family-one-farm program. Community watchdogs are also scrutinizing her personal property and residences in Dhaka.

Locals warn that corruption remains rampant across hill district offices and urge the ACC to strengthen staffing and resources to ensure allocated funds reach marginalized communities.

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