The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has recovered Rs. 4.05 billion in what officials described as the largest single cash recovery in the bureau’s history, following the approval of a plea bargain in the Kohistan mega scam case.
According to NAB Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the plea bargain was approved by the NAB chairman and subsequently confirmed by the Accountability Court, marking the first conviction in the high-profile corruption case involving alleged misappropriation of public funds from the provincial treasury.
Case details and recovery
NAB officials said the case centres on accused Qaisar Iqbal, who allegedly orchestrated the scam by using Mumtaz Khan, a dumper driver, as a benamidar. Investigators allege that bank accounts were opened in the name of a fictitious entity, Mumtaz Construction Company, through which large sums were unlawfully transferred from government accounts.
During the proceedings, Mumtaz Khan opted for a plea bargain, agreeing to return Rs. 4.05 billion to the state. The recovered amount includes cash, immovable properties, and vehicles, according to NAB.
The Accountability Court confirmed the plea bargain, resulting in the recovery of the funds and the conviction of the accused under the National Accountability Ordinance.
Significance of the case
NAB said the recovery represents a major development in the Kohistan mega scam investigation, which involves alleged use of benami arrangements and shell companies to divert public money. Officials stated that further investigations in related references are continuing.
The bureau reiterated its position that recoveries made through plea bargains are deposited into the national treasury in accordance with the law and form part of broader accountability efforts against financial crimes.
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