The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has officially referred a Rs1.94 billion financial irregularity case to Pakistan’s National Accountability Bureau (NAB), Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE). The referral aims to ensure a full investigation and recovery of the misused funds.
Several former officials, including a retired Director of Administration and Finance, the late Deputy Director of Finance, and a retired Assistant Director of Finance, have been held responsible for the scam. The case reveals serious financial misconduct within the authority.
During the investigation, the late Deputy Director Finance’s residence was sealed. Authorities discovered 236 suspicious transactions from the RDA’s National Bank of Pakistan account. Payments were made to eight companies and 12 individuals, raising serious concerns about financial management.
Officials who held key positions such as Directors General or Directors of Administration and Finance over the last nine years, with authority to sign off on financial matters, are also under scrutiny for possible lack of transparency.
The investigation found a questionable payment of Rs110 million to a car showroom. The details about who received vehicles in return remain unclear. Other suspicious payments include Rs175.7 million, Rs339.44 million, Rs161.412 million, Rs264.45 million, Rs393.16 million, and Rs74.25 million directed to various companies and individuals without clear justification.
Despite the ongoing inquiry, the committee appointed by the RDA Director-General has not yet identified the main culprit behind the fraud.
RDA Director-General Kinza Murtaza expressed concern over the severe irregularities causing major losses to public funds. She emphasized the need to recover the embezzled money using all legal channels available, including asset attachment and confiscation under Pakistan’s National Accountability Ordinance and Code of Civil Procedure.
Murtaza urged NAB Rawalpindi, FIA, and ACE Rawalpindi to accelerate efforts for recovery. The case is now in the hands of these key accountability institutions, which must uncover the full scope of the Rs1.94 billion scandal and bring the responsible parties to justice.
The RDA will continue coordinating with these agencies to track progress and keep the public informed on developments.
