In Bangladesh, allegations of bribery have emerged, causing disruption and financial setbacks for women shrimp farmers in the Bagda region. Marine Officer Helal Uddin stands accused of soliciting bribes and commissions from these hardworking farmers, leaving them unable to access their government allocation and shrimp preparations as the season gets underway.

Allegations Against Marine Officer Helal Uddin

A group of 25 women shrimp farmers initially received training in Bagda Shrimp farming and successfully managed to cultivate fish under the supervision of the Upazila Fisheries Office. However, their progress was hampered by natural disasters, resulting in the destruction of fish fry. In response to their predicament, Marine Officer Helal Uddin entered the picture, seeking money allocated to them through the ‘Sustainable Coastal and Marine Fisheries’ project, held in Agrani Bank Mongla branch, under a government scheme.

Troublingly, Helal Uddin demanded a bribe of BDT 100,000 (approx. USD 900) to release the allocated funds, a demand that has yet to be met. As a result, these vulnerable women fish farmers, belonging to an economically disadvantaged community, continue to face immense hardship. The shrimp farming season has already begun, but they remain unable to commence operations in Bagdar Renu and Pona, affecting their financial stability.

A Disturbing Turn of Events

Furthermore, the women farmers have raised additional concerns during a press conference. They allege that Helal Uddin was bribed with BDT 1.2 million (approx. USD 11,000) for the ‘Sustainable Coastal and Marine Fisheries’ project in 2023. Their complaints to the newly appointed Mongla Upazila Senior Fisheries Officer, Anjan Biswas, have seemingly gone unanswered, deepening their frustration.

Accused marine officer Helal Uddin has vehemently denied these allegations, claiming that the women farmers are fabricating the accusations against him. He abruptly disconnected the phone when questioned about the situation.

When reached for comment, Mongla Upazila Senior Fisheries Officer Anjan Biswas assured that a thorough investigation into Marine Officer Helal Uddin’s conduct will take place. He also stated that legal action will be pursued, affirming that the matter has been brought to the attention of senior officials.