Islamabad, Zubair Kasuri: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has launched a major anti-corruption drive targeting officials of the Pakistan Agricultural Storage & Services Corporation (PASSCO) involved in alleged illegalities during wheat procurement and losses due to damaged wheat.
Corruption in Wheat Procurement
Following complaints of corruption in the distribution of gunny bags to farmers during the wheat procurement drive, the FIA initiated investigations across PASSCO centers in Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan. A total of 21 cases and 45 inquiries have been registered, leading to 106 arrests and the recovery of 96,100 bardana bags, 94,393 maunds of wheat, and Rs. 544,000 in cash.
Damaged Wheat Scandal
The FIA is also investigating the alleged role of PASSCO officials in the damage of 13,794 metric tons of wheat due to improper fumigation and losses caused by floods and rains. An FIR has been registered against seven PASSCO officials, five of whom are currently in judicial custody.
Collaboration and Further Action
The FIA is coordinating with various agencies, including the Ministry of National Food Security & Research, Special Branch, and Intelligence Bureau, to gather evidence and pursue legal action against the accused. Special public prosecutors have been appointed to assist in the prosecution of the cases.
The FIA is committed to bringing the perpetrators of these crimes to justice and ensuring transparency and accountability in the operations of PASSCO.
