Fake accounts case: NAB to submit initial report in SC today

RAWALPINDI: The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) team has prepared its initial report into the fake bank accounts case, it was reported on Sunday.

A combined investigation team has also been constituted in light of a joint investigation team (JIT) report to further probe shady transactions.

The NAB is currently investigating 16 different cases pertaining to fake accounts. The report states that investigation was being carried out on the basis of merit and an initial report will be submitted to the Supreme Court (SC) today. The accountability officials have also taken a briefing from the JIT probing the matter. Further record has also been summoned from relevant officials.

SC has directed NAB to submit a report every 15 days about progress into the investigation.

On January 7, SC, in light of the JIT report, ordered NAB to conduct a thorough inquiry into the case and wrap it up within two months.

However, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Asif Ali Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur filed a review petition on Jan 28 against the SC decision in the fake bank accounts case.

The petition said that SC admitted that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) could not furnish substantial evidence. It said there was no rationale to move fake bank accounts case to Islamabad from Karachi.

The review appeal further stated that the apex court’s decision commits an error in holding that the constitution of the JIT is a valid exercise of jurisdiction in aid of a lawful object.

“The facts and circumstances of the case n light of the JIT report in this court were not justified in directing the transmission of the JIT report along with all the material and evidence collected by the JIT to NAB.” It appealed the apex court to review its order.

Last week, Omni Group Chairman Anwar Majeed submitted a petition in the apex court, seeking reconsideration of an earlier decision to transfer the fake accounts case to NAB in Islamabad.

All allegations are connected with Karachi and all witnesses live there as well. The order for NAB to file the reference in Islamabad is illegal,” the petition said.