A recent legal development in Dhaka involves cricket star and former parliamentarian Shakib Al Hasan, who faces an arrest warrant related to a case of dishonored checks with IFIC Bank. The warrant, issued by Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Ziadur Rahman, also names three other individuals.

The case stems from a December 15 filing by IFIC Bank’s Relationship Officer Shahibur Rahman. The charges involve two unpaid checks totaling 41.4 million Taka (BDT 4,14,57,000) from Shakib’s company, Al Hasan Agro Farm Ltd. Other accused parties include the company’s Managing Director Gazi Shahagir Hossein and directors Emdadul Haque and Malaikar Begum.

The cricket all-rounder, who won an uncontested seat from Magura-1 constituency in the January 7, 2024 elections as an Awami League candidate, is currently abroad. His departure coincided with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina leaving Bangladesh during student protests. His absence has affected his plans to conclude his Test cricket career in a home series against South Africa.

Complications have mounted for Shakib, including a murder charge during political unrest. He has expressed reluctance to return to Bangladesh, citing security concerns and potential law enforcement questioning. With his family settled in the United States, an immediate return appears unlikely.

This situation marks a significant shift in Shakib’s public image, particularly following his entry into politics with the Awami League in 2023.