A recent audit has revealed that at least 80 government vehicles are missing from the official records of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Livestock and Dairy Development Department, highlighting serious administrative shortcomings.
The audit, conducted for the financial year 2023–24, uncovered discrepancies between the department’s reported assets and data obtained from the Excise Department. While the department listed 97 vehicles in its inventory, Excise records showed an additional 80 vehicles registered under the name of the Director General of Livestock, which were neither included in official records nor located in any field offices.
The missing vehicles include:
- 1 Suzuki Bolan
- 10 Wagon-Rs
- 1 Toyota Gli
- 9 Toyota Hilux
- 59 vehicles of unspecified make or model
These vehicles were reportedly acquired for various departmental projects between 2007 and 2021. Since the audit only covered records up to 2021, the actual number of unaccounted-for vehicles may be higher.
The audit noted that the vehicles may have been misused or are currently in the possession of unauthorized individuals. The situation has been attributed to weak administrative oversight and a lack of proper tracking systems within the department.
The issue was raised with the department in December 2024, but no official response was received. A request to convene a Departmental Accounts Committee (DAC) meeting in January 2025 was also not acted upon before the audit report was finalized.
In response to the findings, recovery letters have been issued, and an investigation committee has been established under the supervision of the Secretary of Livestock. The purpose of the inquiry is to trace the missing vehicles and determine responsibility for the lapse.
The audit has further recommended a special investigation to recover the assets and implement systemic reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This revelation raises broader concerns about transparency and accountability in public sector departments, particularly those involved in development projects. Mismanagement of government property not only leads to financial losses but also undermines the delivery of essential services and public trust.
Authorities are now under pressure to ensure a thorough investigation, recover the missing vehicles, and introduce robust checks to safeguard public assets moving forward.
