Chowdhury Golam Hasnain, an Assistant Revenue Officer (ARO) serving as Staff Officer to the Commissioner of the Customs Bond Commissionerate, Dhaka (North), has been accused of involvement in bribery, facilitating the misuse of bond facilities, and building an influential network involving officials and employees.
According to several sources familiar with the matter, the alleged network expanded its influence during the tenures of former Commissioner Abu Obaida and former Additional Commissioner Delwar Hossain. The sources have also alleged that bribes amounting to several crore taka were exchanged every month. However, no specific financial documents, transaction records, or investigation findings substantiating these allegations have been obtained.
Allegations of Bribery and Misuse of Bond Facilities
Sources claim that Hasnain was allegedly associated with irregularities involving various activities under the customs bond system, including providing undue benefits in exchange for financial payments. Questions have also been raised about the use and marketing of goods imported under bond facilities.
According to the sources, the officer allegedly maintained links with certain businesses and intermediaries involved in selling goods imported under bond facilities on the open market.
However, no specific importer, consignment number, customs assessment document, or quantified estimate of potential revenue losses has been identified. The allegations therefore require verification through import-export records, customs assessment documents, and official decision-making records.
Alleged Network Involving Officials and Employees
According to the complainants, the alleged network included several assistant revenue officers, employees, and security personnel. Allegations have also been raised concerning possible patronage by former Additional Commissioner Delwar Hossain. The name of Majnu Mia, a personal assistant (PA) to the Commissioner, along with several other individuals, has also surfaced in accounts provided by sources.
However, specific allegations against these individuals, documentary evidence of their alleged involvement, and any related investigation reports have not been obtained. The former officials concerned could not be reached for their comments on the allegations.
Sources have further claimed that Hasnain faced allegations of irregularities and bribery at previous workplaces. However, no records of departmental investigations, disciplinary proceedings, or punitive measures relating to those claims have been obtained.
Allegations of Obstructing and Threatening Journalists
Allegations have also emerged that journalists faced obstruction and intimidation while attempting to report on the activities of the Customs Bond Commissionerate.
Several journalists have claimed that they were stopped at the entrance gate when they visited the office to collect information. They also alleged that they were denied entry while attempting to obtain comments from the officials concerned.
Some journalists have further alleged that a group described as a “musclemen group” was used to intimidate and harass them to prevent the publication of reports. However, the dates of the alleged incidents, the identities of those involved, and copies of any formal complaints have not been obtained.
Sources said preparations were underway to submit a written complaint to the newly appointed Commissioner regarding the alleged incidents.
Questions Raised Over Sources of Wealth
Sources have alleged that Hasnain accumulated substantial assets during a relatively short period of service through bribery and irregularities. Some individuals familiar with the matter have also claimed that the issue has come to the attention of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).
However, no verified information regarding the officer’s assets, declared income, or the initiation of any formal ACC inquiry or investigation has been obtained. The allegations concerning his wealth therefore remain unverified.
Alleged Threats Against the Newspaper Editor
When contacted by phone for comment, Chowdhury Golam Hasnain did not answer the call. It was subsequently reported that he contacted the newspaper’s editor after the publication of a report.
During that conversation, he reportedly said, “We are seven brothers, and none of us owns any property. My wife has a well-paying job.”
According to the account provided, he later became agitated and allegedly told the editor, “I will file a case against you. I will see how big a journalist you are. You street urchins.”
The account of the conversation could not be independently verified.
Calls for an Impartial Investigation
Concerned quarters have called on the newly appointed Commissioner to review the allegations impartially and initiate an investigation if warranted. If evidence of bribery, misuse of bond facilities, or customs and tax evasion is established, appropriate legal action may be taken against those responsible.
However, allegations alone do not establish guilt. A conclusive assessment would require verification of financial records, official decisions, import-export documentation, and statements from all relevant parties.
An impartial investigation and effective administrative accountability are essential to determining the facts, ensuring transparency in the customs bond system, and protecting government revenue.
