KARACHI: Startling disclosures are expected soon in a major corruption scandal involving import of vehicles.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has reportedly completed its inquiry into the matter, which would soon send its report to the authorities concerned.
Informed sources in the department have disclosed that cases have been registered against one clearing agent and about a dozen of customs officials who are accused of being involved in the scam.
According to the further details, the inquiry has been initiated against 68 non-governmental organisations (NGOs) which allegedly imported about 1,100 vehicles, showing them in papers as ambulances, during 2007-2009.
At least Rs 0.3 million to Rs 0.6 million were saved in the sum of levies on the import of each vehicle, the sources further claimed.
The FIA succeeded in identifying 68 NGOs which were involved in ‘illegal’ import of vehicles.
Sources further claimed that one NGO imported as many as 68 ambulances, while another NGO imported 33 ambulances.
The FIA identified about 300 vehicles during their investigation, while out these impounded vehicles, 27 were given to the owners after the payment of taxes.
It may be mentioned here that the case of importation of vehicles under the head of ambulances was unearthed last year. The field formation collectorates of Appraisement-West and Appraisement-East investigated the case. However, nothing was achieved.
It may also be mentioned here that the FBR authorities also took up the said matter and asked the authorities concerned of Karachi Customs House to submit a detailed report in this regard. However, sources claimed that no such report was sent to the FBR Headquarters.
