ISLAMABAD: The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has launched an inquiry into the illegal appointments and promotions in the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) and sought detail of some of the officials allegedly involved in corrupt practices.
Through notice sent to the ministry last month, the bureau asked the ministry to provide certified copies of documents/information/details pertaining to some officials working at its attached department Pakistan Standard and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) as complaints against them were being processed already by the anti-graft body.
The bureau’s Karachi chapter, under section 27 of National Accountability Ordinance 1999, has sought detail about Mr Akhtar Bughio, Mr Ali Bux Soomro, Mr Nabi Bux Jamali and others, who are presently posted at the PSQCA.
The NAB has sought personal files, salary account numbers, details of transfer/postings since appointment, asset performas submitted by the alleged to the department during their service, details of any departmental inquiry/proceedings initiated against the subject and any other relevant information.
According to sources, Imports and Exports Director Bughio is allegedly involved in corrupt practices while clearing of import items at the ports. The PSQCA officials have been involved in taking kickbacks for clearing import items without laboratory tests and inspection. Bughio is allegedly a dual national but has worked at the PSQCA for more than 10 years.
On the other hand, License and Certifications Director Soomro is also allegedly involved in corruption as the department has also been in the hot waters for taking bribe in return of licenses, NoCs and certifications being issued to manufacturers of around 100 listed items. Soomro allegedly holds two domiciles and he has been working at the authority for 10 years.
