The federal government has launched a major crackdown on the multi-billion rupee over-invoicing scandal in the import of solar panels, with the prime minister approving the formation of two high-level committees to ensure action, investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
The move comes after customs officials revealed that billions of rupees were involved in the scam through fake documents and fictitious business transactions.
According to officials, many of the importing companies were mere paper companies with no real business.
The first committee set up on the prime minister’s instructions, the “Committee for Disciplinary Action”, will oversee action against officers and officials accused of administrative negligence or aiding importers.
The committee will not only determine liability but also identify officers who have so far escaped investigation.
The committee will be headed by Secretary Establishment Division Nabeel Awan and will include senior officials from the State Bank, Ministry of Finance, FBR, FIA and Intelligence Bureau.
The committee will submit its progress report to the Prime Minister’s Office every two weeks.
The second committee, the “Committee for Investigation and Prosecution Supervision”, has been formed to expedite the prosecution of cases and expedite legal proceedings in cases related to trade-based money laundering.
The committee will be headed by Director General of Pakistan Customs Rubab Sikandar and will include representatives from FIA, Customs, Anti-Money Laundering Units and other agencies.
The prime minister has directed the law ministry to appoint special prosecutors in Islamabad and Karachi to effectively prosecute the cases.
According to customs officials, a total of Rs111 billion in fines have been imposed on those involved in the scandal, while further action will also be taken to seize assets acquired through illegal means.
However, the matter became more controversial when an officer who was said to have played a role in exposing the scandal was suspended.
Experts say that if the government wants to make its accountability campaign effective, it must conduct a transparent investigation into this aspect as well.
According to analysts, the scandal not only caused financial losses but also exposed the weaknesses of the system. Reforms and stricter monitoring measures by the government can play an important role in preventing such corruption in the future.
