Controversial contractor SM Golam Kibria Shamim, also known as GK Shamim, and his mother, Ayesha Akter, have claimed innocence in their self-defence statements in a case filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) over the acquisition of illegal wealth and assets.
On Wednesday, they pleaded not guilty and sought justice before Judge Md. Rabiul Alam of Dhaka's Special Judge Court-4.
According to court sources, the day was set for the accused to present their self-defence statements. The judge read out the charges against them and asked whether they pleaded guilty or not. In response, both claimed innocence and requested justice.
Belal Hossain, the bench assistant of the court, stated, “Among the two accused, GK Shamim is in prison and was produced before the court. His mother is out on bail but is unwell. She was brought to the court in an ambulance. Both declared their innocence during the defence hearing.”
Previously, the case was scheduled for a verdict on February 17. However, GK Shamim’s lawyer, Shahinur Islam, requested a re-examination of the case’s investigation officer. The court granted the request, removing the case from the verdict list and setting a new date for testimony.
ACC Deputy Director Md. Salahuddin filed the case against GK Shamim and his mother at the commission’s Integrated District Office-1 on October 21, 2019, accusing them of amassing illegal wealth worth Tk 2.97 billion.
On January 17, 2021, Salahuddin submitted the charge sheet to the court. Subsequently, on October 18, 2022, the court placed charges against them and ordered the trial to begin.
Bd-pratidin English/FNC
