PAC Reviews Rs 40 Billion Kohistan Fraud as NAB Opens Investigation into Massive Financial Misconduct

PAC Reviews Rs 40 Billion Kohistan Fraud as NAB Opens Investigation into Massive Financial Misconduct

By. Nadeem Tanoli

ISLAMABAD — A massive Rs 40 billion financial fraud in Kohistan has drawn the attention of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which is now actively reviewing the case alongside an investigation launched by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). The scandal, involving the alleged misuse of government-issued checkbooks, has raised serious concerns about systemic weaknesses and a lack of oversight within the Finance Department.

During the PAC session, Chairman Junaid Akbar expressed frustration over repeated audit requests being ignored by the concerned authorities. Audit officials reported that three employees were found to have fraudulently withdrawn significant funds, all of whom have since been arrested. However, the committee was alarmed by the Finance Department’s inaction. “Despite writing to the Finance Department thrice, no disciplinary action has been taken,” the auditors informed the committee.

The committee further questioned how one of the primary suspects in the case was transferred to Islamabad, despite being implicated in the fraud. PAC members warned that such administrative decisions not only undermine accountability but also encourage broader institutional corruption.

As the PAC continues its scrutiny, it has requested full documentation and follow-up reports to be presented at the next meeting. The committee’s demand for transparency signals a broader effort to enforce financial accountability and prevent future misuse of public funds.

With NAB’s formal probe underway, the scandal could have far-reaching implications for governance and public trust in fiscal management, especially in remote regions like Kohistan.