Sammilito Islamic Bank depositors can withdraw up to Tk10 lakh for medical treatment: BB

Bangladesh Bank has said that customers of Sammilito Islamic Bank can withdraw up to Tk10 lakh for medical treatment in special cases, as depositors continue to face difficulties accessing their funds.

The information was provided by Bangladesh Bank Assistant Spokesperson Shahriar Siddiqui during an emergency press briefing this morning (7 April).

He said customers suffering from illness would be allowed to withdraw up to Tk10 lakh upon submission of relevant documents.

"If more than this is required, informing Bangladesh Bank will suffice. However, whether someone is actually ill will be verified," he said, adding that the bank's administrators have already been informed of the decision.

Shahriar also said customers who are unable to withdraw the approved amount can report the matter to Bangladesh Bank.

Urging depositors to remain patient, he said, "Customers have shown sufficient patience and I urge them to show a bit more patience. Everyone will receive their money. Funds are being released in proportion to the government's deposit support."

He added that the disbursement process initially began with a Tk2 lakh limit and is being gradually expanded. Steps are also underway to strengthen the bank's management.

"The recruitment notice for appointing a managing director has been issued, and the process of appointing a chairman is ongoing. Once a decision is provided by the Ministry of Finance, Bangladesh Bank will implement it quickly," he said.

Meanwhile, hundreds of customers of Sammilito Islamic Bank staged a protest in front of Bangladesh Bank today, demanding access to their deposits.

Many protesters said they had been unable to withdraw their money for months.

For some, the funds are needed for medical treatment, while others said the deposits represent savings for family needs such as weddings or lifelong savings.

Depositors also opposed the central bank's decision to reduce profit rates for depositors of five merged banks for 2024 and 2025, and demanded its withdrawal along with the immediate normalisation of banking transactions.