After an extensive legal battle spanning eight years, singer Asif Akbar has been cleared of charges related to the alleged possession of foreign liquor. Expressing his relief, Akbar denounced the accusations as false and expressed gratitude for finally receiving justice.
The verdict was pronounced by Judge Ayesha Akter Moushumi of the Second Additional Metropolitan Sessions Judge Court in Dhaka on Monday, where Asif Akbar was present. Defense attorney Pradip Kumar Debnath confirmed the acquittal.
In response to the verdict, Asif Akbar stated, “I am thankful that the accusations were unfounded. This case originated during Ramadan and has now concluded during the same month. I am content and pleased with the outcome after actively participating in court proceedings for eight years. I pursued justice without seeking to sway the case in any particular direction. My commitment to legal processes stems from my upbringing as the son of a lawyer. I refrained from public commentary on the matter out of respect for the judicial system. The resolution of this case brings relief to my family, fans, and well-wishers who have endured distress throughout this period.”
Law enforcement authorities alleged the discovery of four bottles of foreign liquor in Asif Akbar’s office in the capital on June 6, 2018, leading to the filing of a case by Prashanta Kumar Sikdar, a sub-inspector of the CID’s Cyber Investigation Unit, at Tejgaon Police Station on July 23, 2019. The charge sheet was presented on October 13 of the same year, followed by the framing of charges on November 25, 2024. After testimonies from three witnesses, the court rendered its verdict on Monday, absolving the singer and concluding the protracted legal proceedings.
