After an eight-year legal battle, renowned Bangladeshi singer Asif Akbar has finally been acquitted in a case concerning the possession of foreign liquor. Following the verdict, Asif expressed relief and satisfaction, stating that the allegations were “entirely fabricated” and that justice had ultimately prevailed.
On Monday, the Second Additional Metropolitan Sessions Judge of Dhaka, Ayesha Akter Moushumi, delivered the acquittal in the case that had been filed on charges of holding foreign liquor without a licence. Asif was present in court at the time of the verdict. The news was confirmed by the defendant’s lawyer, Pradip Kumar Debnath.
Speaking to reporters after receiving the verdict, Asif said, “Alhamdulillah, this was a case built entirely on falsehoods. Ironically, the case began during the month of Ramadan, and the verdict has also come in Ramadan. I am relieved and happy. For eight years, I have attended court regularly, without attempting to influence proceedings or turn this into a political matter. I only sought justice, and through persistent legal effort, I have finally been acquitted.”
Asif added, “Being the child of a lawyer, I have always had profound respect for the law and courtroom procedures. That is why I refrained from speaking publicly during this long ordeal. Over these eight years, my family, my fans, and those who care about me have endured anxiety. Today, with this verdict, I feel liberated—it is a moment of immense joy for me and my family.”
The case dates back to 6 June 2018, when law enforcement authorities claimed to have recovered four bottles of foreign liquor from Asif’s office in Dhaka. Subsequently, on 23 July 2019, Prashanta Kumar Sikder, an Additional Inspector of the Cyber Investigation Division of the CID, filed a case at Tejgaon Police Station, alleging that Asif had possessed liquor without a valid licence.
The investigation led to the submission of the charge sheet on 13 October 2019, and the court framed charges on 25 November 2024, officially commencing the trial. After hearing testimony from three witnesses, the court delivered its final verdict on Monday, acquitting Asif of all charges.
The following table summarises the key milestones in the case:
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Liquor Recovery | 6 June 2018 | Four bottles of foreign liquor allegedly found at Asif Akbar’s office |
| Case Filed | 23 July 2019 | CID Cyber Investigation filed case at Tejgaon Police Station |
| Charge Sheet Submitted | 13 October 2019 | Investigating officer submitted formal charges |
| Charges Framed | 25 November 2024 | Court officially began the trial |
| Verdict | 9 March 2026 | Asif Akbar acquitted of all charges |
Asif’s acquittal not only brings personal relief but also underscores the importance of due process and perseverance in the legal system. Reflecting on the journey, Asif acknowledged the support of his family and fans, noting that their encouragement had been crucial in sustaining him through the prolonged legal proceedings. The verdict marks the conclusion of a case that had, for nearly a decade, cast a shadow over his professional and personal life, restoring both his freedom and reputation.