Investigators identify thousands of illegal plot files
Authorities investigating the Islamabad Cooperative Housing Society uncovered what officials described as one of Pakistan’s largest housing fraud cases. According to investigators, former management officials allegedly issued nearly 42,000 plot files despite the society possessing land for only around 6,000 legitimate allotments.
Sources connected to investigations by the National Accountability Bureau Rawalpindi and Islamabad revealed that approximately 36,000 files were identified as illegal, excessive, duplicate, or unsupported by available land records. Officials stated that the society’s approved layout plan and existing land bank could not legally accommodate the large number of issued files.
Furthermore, investigators found serious irregularities in payment and allotment records linked to thousands of files. Authorities alleged that many citizens purchased plot files for land that either did not exist, lacked official approval, or remained undocumented.
Meanwhile, officials believe the alleged scheme systematically generated billions of rupees through the sale of fake and duplicate files over several years. Investigators added that financial irregularities identified so far exceed Rs16 billion, although the total amount could increase as authorities examine additional records and transactions.
Seven suspects arrested as investigation expands
The National Accountability Bureau confirmed the arrest of seven individuals connected to the society’s former management committee and a private land dealing company. Among those arrested are former Secretary General Mehdi Khan Shakir, former Treasurer Malik Muhammad Nawaz, and former Executive Member Muhammad Arshad.
In addition, authorities detained four individuals associated with Land Stock Dealing Point Company, including Munir Akhtar, Ali Mahmood, Yameen Malik, and Ghulam Jailani.
Meanwhile, an accountability court in Islamabad granted NAB seven-day physical remand of the accused to facilitate further investigation. Officials said investigators aim to recover documentary evidence, trace financial transactions, and identify additional individuals allegedly involved in the scandal.
Authorities also indicated that the investigation may widen further as teams continue reviewing the society’s administration, financial affairs, and land management practices.
