He said this while speaking as chief guest at an event promoting Bangla QR transactions organized by One Bank PLC at United International University in the capital on Saturday (October 10).

The governor said that when he took office, nearly one-third of the total funds in the banking system had been looted. Money laundering and widespread financial irregularities have created a liquidity crisis in the banking sector and hurt the country's economy and development activities.

According to him, with the looted money, it would have been possible to support 20 million families or build two large infrastructure projects like the Padma Bridge.

The governor said strict legal action is being taken to bring those involved in irregularities and money laundering in the banking sector under accountability. At the same time, initiatives have been taken to recover the looted money and assets. He also mentioned that long-term reform and restructuring are needed to restore financial stability.