BFIU chief’s leave extended as probe continues

BFIU chief AFM Shahidul Islam.

Dhaka, Aug 20 - AFM Shahinul Islam, head of the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU), will remain on mandatory leave as an investigation against him goes on.

The move comes after a controversial video of him went viral on social media.

Deputy Governor Zakir Hossain Chowdhury confirmed the decision today, stating that Shahinul Islam's forced leave, as ordered by the governor, remains in effect.

“The BFIU chief's appointment is handled by the Financial Institutions Division. So, they will decide whether he stays or not," said Chowdhury.

However, the governor's directive for leave will remain valid and action will be taken against him pending the investigation, he said.

The controversy began when a controversial video of Shahinul Islam was circulated on social media on Monday, showing him sending explicit content to a woman. Shahinul, however, claims the clip was generated using artificial intelligence.

In response, Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr Ahsan H Mansur ordered him to be sent on mandatory leave on Tuesday.

Despite this clear directive, Shahinul Islam reported to work at the central bank today (Wednesday), sparking tension and internal conflict.

On Tuesday, a group of central bank officials had submitted a memorandum to the governor, requesting that he be immediately placed on forced leave.

Meanwhile, the central bank’s fact-checking investigation team has found evidence supporting allegations involving a controversial sexual video linked to BFIU chief Shahinul Islam. - UNB