As Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) intensifies investigations into alleged corruption by former ministers, MPs, and business elites tied to the previous Sheikh Hasina government, concerns have emerged regarding efforts to liquidate foreign assets—particularly in the United Kingdom.

According to recent investigative reporting by international media, several individuals close to the former prime minister are reportedly attempting to sell, mortgage, or transfer ownership of their properties in the UK. The UK’s Land Registry has received at least 20 property transfer applications from individuals linked to the former regime within the past year.

The ACC has responded to the reports with urgency. Director General Akhter Hossain stated that if verifiable information is obtained regarding attempts to offload such assets before official seizure orders are enforced, measures will be taken to halt the transactions.

Related: Former Chief Justice Allegedly Acquired Purbachal Plot at Fraction of Market Price

Following the mass uprising of August 5, the ACC launched a sweeping investigation into suspected embezzlement and abuse of power by members of the former administration and their beneficiaries. In addition to filing cases, the commission has begun identifying and moving to seize high-value assets both within and outside the country—estimated to be worth several thousands of crores in Bangladeshi taka.

In a related development, the ACC has approved formal charges against former State Minister for Labour Begum Monnujan Sufian and Labour Directorate official Mizanur Rahman in a case involving alleged corruption in promotions.

When asked about discrepancies in former PM Sheikh Hasina’s 2008 election affidavit, DG Akhter Hossain noted that such declarations do not fall under the ACC’s current jurisdiction, and thus no legal steps can be taken on that matter.

Related: Civil Society Seeks Legal Action Over False Information in Hasina’s Affidavit

Sources indicate that individuals facing corruption probes in Bangladesh are taking advantage of legal loopholes abroad to shift or dispose of assets. This revelation was part of a joint investigation conducted by The Guardian and global anti-corruption watchdog Transparency International, published on Saturday.

As local and international pressure mounts, the ACC has hinted at closer collaboration with global agencies to prevent asset flight and recover stolen wealth.