PAC uncovers Rs40 billion corruption scandal in Kohistan

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) discussed the alleged Rs40 billion scam in Kohistan, expressing concerns over financial irregularities and lack of cooperation. PAC Chairman Junaid Akbar highlighted the department's failure to cooperate when audit objections are raised.

In May, the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government initiated an investigation into the corruption scandal in Kohistan district, where around Rs40 billion was reportedly misused from the provincial treasury. The funds were meant for contractors of four departments - communication and works, local government, irrigation, and public health engineering.

During a PAC meeting chaired by K-P Assembly Speaker Babar Saleem Swati, officials from the finance department and the Accountant General's office acknowledged the misappropriation of billions from government funds. While Rs24 billion embezzlement was confirmed, PAC members were dissatisfied with the explanations provided by the finance secretary and the accountant general.

Audit officials revealed a misuse of cheque book and fraud by three arrested individuals. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) is investigating the matter. The auditor general mentioned that no disciplinary action had been taken against finance department officials despite multiple letters sent. The committee demanded full case details and submission of relevant records.

According to the source: The Express Tribune.