The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has filed a corruption reference involving Rs700 million against former officials and other accused persons, alleging embezzlement of public funds.
Details of the Scam
According to NAB officials, the reference pertains to the misappropriation of funds allocated for development projects. The accused include former government officials and private contractors who colluded to siphon off money through fake bills and inflated contracts.
The investigation revealed that the accused devised a scheme to embezzle Rs700 million by submitting fraudulent documents and over-invoicing. The funds were originally meant for infrastructure projects in the region.
Accused Named in the Reference
NAB has named several individuals in the reference, including a former secretary of the provincial department, two former chief engineers, and three private contractors. The bureau has also included the names of their accomplices who facilitated the scam.
“The accused abused their positions to approve fake work orders and release payments without proper verification,” said a NAB spokesperson. “This caused a huge loss to the national exchequer.”
Legal Proceedings
NAB has submitted the reference to an accountability court, which will initiate trial proceedings. The bureau has requested the court to confiscate the assets of the accused and recover the embezzled amount.
The accused are expected to face charges of corruption, abuse of power, and money laundering. If convicted, they could face lengthy prison terms and fines.
Impact on Public Projects
The embezzlement has severely impacted development projects in the region, leaving many incomplete. Local residents have expressed frustration over the lack of basic amenities despite funds being allocated.
NAB has assured that it will continue its crackdown on corruption and bring all perpetrators to justice. The bureau urged the public to report any suspicious activities to help eradicate corruption.
