ITIIU uncovers Tk 1,874cr in evasion over 7-month

The newly formed Income Tax Intelligence and Investigation Unit (ITIIU) has identified tax evasion amounting to Tk 1,874 crore during its first seven months of operations, authorities said this week.

Since launching full-scale activities last December, the ITIIU has investigated 183 individuals and organizations, unearthing widespread tax irregularities. As part of its enforcement drive, the unit has already recovered Tk 117.43 crore from 63 taxpayers through 231 A-challans, which has been deposited into the state treasury.

Despite being a newly formed agency grappling with manpower and logistical constraints, officials at the National Board of Revenue (NBR) said the ITIIU has made “significant headway,” describing the agency’s work as both exemplary and critical for safeguarding national revenue.

The ITIIU has temporarily frozen the bank accounts of over a hundred individuals and organizations after gathering specific evidence of tax evasion. NBR officials emphasized that the agency is committed to taking decisive legal steps against both tax evasion and the accumulation of benami assets.

Alongside enforcement, the unit is also focused on encouraging taxpayers to meet their obligations voluntarily, sending what officials called a “clear warning” to habitual tax evaders and money launderers.

The NBR underscored that the ITIIU’s efforts are not just about revenue recovery. “This is a milestone for Bangladesh’s revenue sector from moral, technical, and legal perspectives,” said an NBR statement. “The success so far demonstrates that these initiatives will help boost compliance, foster a stronger tax culture, and ultimately contribute to reducing economic inequality.”

Looking ahead, the NBR said it believes the ITIIU’s expanding capabilities—driven by increased use of technology and skilled personnel—will play a vital role in building a resilient and fair revenue system, essential for Bangladesh’s broader economic development.