UK Investigators may assist with Bangladesh’s Corruption Probe

UK investigators are assessing how they can support inquiries into alleged grand corruption in Bangladesh.

The move follows comments from Bangladesh’s interim leader, who claimed Labour MP Tulip Siddiq had “wealth left behind” in the country and “should be made responsible”.

Ms Siddiq resigned as anti-corruption minister in January 2025 after authorities in Bangladesh named her in corruption probes.

The allegations have placed increased scrutiny on her financial ties and political connections.

A spokesperson for Tulip Siddiq said she “totally denies the claims” and had “not been contacted on these matters”.

Reportedly, the International Anti-Corruption Coordination Centre (IACCC) is “exploring opportunities” to assist Bangladeshi authorities.

The IACCC, hosted by the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) and funded by the British government, works with overseas partners on high-level corruption cases.

It consists of specialists who support cross-border investigations into financial crimes and misconduct.

NCA officials visited Bangladesh in October and November to support the interim government’s initial investigations.

However, UK agencies are not directly involved in any probe into Ms Siddiq. Sources stress this should not be seen as confirmation that the NCA or IACCC is backing a specific inquiry.

The UK’s involvement raises questions about whether money allegedly moved out of Bangladesh under the previous government entered Britain.

Financial transparency groups have long warned about illicit funds being laundered through the UK property market.

The allegations against Ms Siddiq centre on her connection to her aunt, Sheikh Hasina, who led Bangladesh for 20 years.

Ms Hasina fled the country in August 2024 after weeks of violent protests. The new government has since accused her of corruption and other crimes.

Ms Siddiq has lived in multiple London properties linked to the Awami League, the party her aunt still leads.

She referred herself to Sir Laurie Magnus, the Independent Adviser on Ministers’ Interests.

He found “no evidence of improprieties” but said it was “regrettable” she had not been more aware of the “potential reputational risks” linked to her family ties.

Ms Siddiq said remaining in her role would be “a distraction” but maintained she had done nothing wrong.

Labour sources insist she does not own property abroad, does not hold an overseas bank account, and has not been contacted by authorities in either the UK or Bangladesh.

They argue the allegations are politically motivated and that Ms Siddiq has been caught in the crossfire of Bangladesh’s political disputes.