Who took Tk 70 lakh from Justice Manik at the border?

Former Supreme Court judge AHM Shamsuddin Chowdhury Manik was detained by Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) personnel at the Jakiganj border in Sylhet on Friday night.

Justice Manik, allegedly fleeing to India, carried Tk 60 to 70 lakh in cash, a British passport, and various personal belongings. However, the individuals with whom he had arranged his escape took everything and disappeared.

A video clip of the incident has gone viral on social media, showing the former judge during his attempted escape. In the video, Justice Manik is asked what he had with him at the time of detention. He responds, "I had a British passport, Bengali passport, some cash, debit and credit cards. But they took everything."

When asked if the boatmen were responsible, he replied that two young men had taken his belongings. "I have nothing left, even my phone numbers are gone," he added. 

Justice Manik also mentioned that he had agreed to pay Tk 15,000 for the crossing, which he gave to the men who later assaulted him and took everything. The video shows someone wrapping a towel around his neck and another asking his name. Justice Manik identifies himself and mentions that he is from Munshiganj.

During the exchange, Justice Manik explained that he attempted to flee due to fear of the administration. When accused of wrongdoing, he denied any injustice.

Justice Manik, who retired in September 2015, was known for his controversial statements during the tenure of the ousted Awami League government. Recently, he faced legal troubles, with cases filed against him for making objectionable comments about former President Ziaur Rahman, founder of BNP.

Following the resignation and departure of Sheikh Hasina on August 5 amid a student movement, several leaders and officials from the previous government have gone into hiding, and some have been arrested.