The government is considering out-of-court settlements as an option to recover laundered money from abroad, as the formal legal process is often time-consuming.

Bangladesh Bank Governor Ahsan H Mansur revealed the information during a discussion on "Anti-Money Laundering and Contemporary Banking Issues" at the central bank's Chattogram office yesterday.

"Many countries pursue alternative means beyond formal procedures. The government is willing to consider them if settlements can help expedite the return of funds," the governor said.

He stressed the need for gathering accurate data before launching any recovery efforts. "Whether the money is brought back through legal procedures or out-of-court settlements, we must first gather detailed information on the amount and destination of the laundered assets. The more specific the data, the better our negotiating position."

The central bank has engaged several private firms to assist in identifying and tracing these assets abroad, he said. After compiling the information, the government will initiate discussions with the respective government agencies.

"We must also abide by their legal frameworks. Communication has already begun, and so far, their response has been encouraging," Mansur added.

In response to a question, the governor said Chattogram-based conglomerate S Alam Group laundered between Tk 1.25 lakh crore and Tk 1.5 lakh crore during the Awami League regime. The total amount could range from Tk 2.5 to 3 lakh crore, including the money laundered by other groups like Beximco.

Mansur also said that a significant portion of the country's approximately Tk 5 lakh crore in non-performing loans (NPLs) had been laundered. "The rest also remains unrecovered. Initiatives have been taken to recover such loans through money loan courts," he added.

When asked about central bank officials' role in money laundering, the governor said actions were taken only on specific allegations. "We cannot take steps based on mere assumptions. If the Anti-Corruption Commission or any state agency submits evidence-backed complaints, we act accordingly," he said.

"I do not believe anyone should be dismissed solely on the basis of allegations or suspicion," he added.