The Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) Anti-Corruption Circle in Islamabad has intensified its crackdown on corruption, making significant strides in uncovering fraudulent activities and recovering misappropriated funds. The following are the key highlights:
Arrest of Ministry of Education Officials
Two former employees of the Ministry of Education, holding the positions of Chief Finance Officer and Chief Internal Auditor, have been apprehended for alleged embezzlement of over Rs20 million. According to an FIA spokesperson, the suspects facilitated the release of funds to more than 318 ghost employees and unlawfully obtained membership at the Islamabad Club. A case has been registered, and investigations are ongoing.
Performance Report: Key Achievements of the FIA Anti-Corruption Circle
The FIA’s performance report for the last eight months reveals notable recoveries and operations:
Recoveries: Over Rs160 million was recovered in various cases.
Registered Cases: 104 cases were filed, and 270 inquiries were successfully concluded.
Land Reclamation: Under the Supreme Court’s directives, 1,550 kanals of commercial and residential land belonging to the Evacuee Trust Property were reclaimed, valued at over Rs9.71 billion.
Electricity Dues: Rs69.9 million was recovered in unpaid electricity bills.
Counterfeit Medicine Raids: 15 cases were registered against individuals involved in selling banned and unregistered medicines. Machinery worth millions and counterfeit drugs were seized during these operations.
Corruption in Government Institutions
The FIA also targeted fraudulent activities within government institutions:
Fake Nursing and Vocational Institutes: 18 cases were registered against fake nursing institutions, and 10 cases were filed against unregistered technical and vocational training institutes.
Passport and Identity Fraud: 18 individuals were arrested for their involvement in the illegal issuance of passports and identity cards.
Education Department Fraud in Sindh
In a separate operation, the Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) uncovered fraudulent activities in the Sindh education department:
Fake Appointments: Over Rs10 million was embezzled through fake appointment letters.
Culprits: Employees, including Muhammad Khan Brahmani, Muhammad Iqbal Arifani, Salim Arifani, and Naeem Akhtar, were identified as key suspects. These individuals allegedly received large sums for issuing counterfeit appointment letters and cards.
ACE officials have sought assistance from the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) to arrest the absconding suspects, emphasizing that the investigation cannot proceed without their capture.
The FIA’s persistent efforts underline its commitment to rooting out corruption and recovering public funds. These operations not only bring justice to light but also send a strong message to those engaging in corrupt practices.