At least Rs 40 million have been embezzled from money supposed to be deposited in lieu of Motor Vehicle Tax by officials of the Excise Department and National Bank of Pakistan (NBP), Pakistan Today has learnt. The Rs 40 million have been recovered, but this sum is from only two NBP branches and investigation in 10 other branches is still underway. “This ring would issue receipts for Motor Vehicle Tax paid to NBP, but the money would not be deposited in the official government accounts,” sources told Pakistan Today. Three Excise officials – Inspector Muhammad Mursaleen, Junior Clerk Shahid Abid and Clerk Saimab – were first busted by the Anti Corruption Police, who had already registered a first information report (FIR) No. 15/2011 of the matter. The arrested accused then confessed to their links with Sohail Ayub, a former manager at the NBP branch on M. A. Jinnah Road. According to Investigation Officer Chaudhry Hameed Ullah, the bank manager confessed to embezzling Rs 32 million, and also disclosed that officials in 12 other branches are also involved in the ring.
It is pertain to mention here that the Public Accounts Committee of the Sindh Assembly had pointed out the issue about three months ago. The Excise secretary had stated that 14 officials were found guilty in this scam, but interestingly, the department did not take any action against those alleged to be involved.
Why don't you name the branches where this embezzlement had been done, and what fool proof steps have been taken to safeguard. Names with pictures should be posted of the scoundrels.
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