Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission has decided to send notices seeking asset declarations from journalist couple Shakil Ahmed and Farzana Rupa as part of an inquiry into allegations of illegally acquired wealth. ACC Deputy Director Md Akhtarul Islam said on Sunday that the notices will be delivered through prison authorities because the pair are in custody in separate cases. Shakil is held at Kashimpur High-Security Central Jail and Rupa at Munshiganj District Jail.

Using powers under Section 26(1) of the Anti-Corruption Commission Act, 2004, the ACC has asked each to provide information on assets held by themselves, their spouse and dependants. The order also seeks details of movable and immovable property, including assets held openly or anonymously, as well as liabilities, income sources and how the assets were acquired.

ACC records say they must submit the information within 21 working days of receiving the order. Failure to provide the declaration within the deadline or submitting false information could lead to action under Section 26(2) of the law. The ACC said its inquiry gave it “firm belief” that each owned substantial assets beyond known income. Earlier notices sent to their home address were returned after no one was found there.