Dhaka, Jan. 5 -- Bangladesh Bank will not conduct any direct investigation into past irregularities at the five private banks merged to form Sammilito Islami Bank, opting instead for a forensic audit to determine how funds were siphoned off and who benefited.

Speaking on Monday to brief the media on the newly formed bank's operations, Governor Ahsan H Mansur said an external organisation would be appointed within days to carry out the forensic audit.

The audit would trace where the money went, identify the ultimate beneficiaries and forward its findings to relevant state agencies, which would decide on filing cases and framing charges, he noted.

Asked whether central bank officials could also come under scrutiny if wrongdoing is found,...