The interim government is going to take strict measures against the godfathers in the financial sector, including money launderers, Finance and Commerce Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed said on Saturday (September 7).
"Bank accounts of many of them have already been frozen. This is a preliminary initiative. Afterward, there will be investigations and if found guilty, they will be prosecuted," he told reporters after a programme at the Bangladesh Institute of Governance and Management (BIGM) at Agargaon in the capital.
"It will be visible more in the days ahead. Once it is visible, you will be able to see everything," he said.
The adviser also said the National Board of Revenue (NBR) would be able to nab the money launderers easily now as there is no scope of whitening black money anymore.
Asked about excessive prices of essentials in the market, Dr Salehuddin said, "It is not that the prices have not decreased at all. The problem will not be solved overnight. Prices will fall gradually. Some initiatives have already been taken, for example, potato and onion import duty has been slashed to reduce prices."
The adviser also said, "The government is taking a strict stand against the market manipulators. Deputy Commissioners have been instructed to take measures. Regular market supervision will be done. But it is also necessary to see that the producers of the product get a fair price."
Addressing the ongoing unrest in the garment sector, Dr Salehuddin assured that the situation would stabilise as law enforcers intensified their actions against disruptive elements.
He noted that authorities are actively targeting ill-intentioned outsiders in the Ashulia, Baipail and Gazipura areas.
"Discussions are ongoing with owners, workers, and political parties to mitigate the instability in the garment sector. The issue will be resolved soon," he added.
END/SZA
