Graft probe uncovers Rs300m in jailed official’s bank accounts

GUJRANWALA: The Gujranwala Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE), while investigating alleged corruption involving a jail official, has reportedly traced around Rs300 million in two personal bank accounts linked to arrested jailer Azhar Cheema.

The development emerged after the official was initially arrested in connection with a case involving alleged corruption of Rs45 million. However, investigators said the scope of the inquiry had now widened after preliminary scrutiny of his financial records revealed substantial amounts in two personal bank accounts.

According to officials familiar with the investigation, the two accounts allegedly contained nearly Rs150 million each. The Anti-Corruption Establishment has formally sought detailed records from the relevant bank to examine the transactions and determine the sources of the money.

Investigators are expected to scrutinise the accounts from which the funds were transferred, the individuals or entities involved in the transactions and the purpose for which the money was received.

Officials said the financial investigation was still at an early stage and no final conclusion had yet been reached regarding the origin of the funds.

The Anti-Corruption Establishment has also sought further details about the assets allegedly linked to the jailer. During the initial phase of the investigation, authorities had reportedly traced a vehicle valued at around Rs10 million.

However, investigators have now reportedly received information about two more vehicles allegedly owned or used by the accused, bringing the total number of vehicles linked to him to three.

The inquiry has also expanded following reports that a house was being constructed in Lahore’s Defence area. Investigators are examining the source of funds used for the construction of the property.

Sources said the names of some contractors from Gujranwala had also surfaced during the preliminary investigation. Their possible role and connection with the construction project are being examined by the investigating authorities.

Officials said the names and other details of individuals linked to the financial transactions and the alleged property would be made public after the completion of the investigation.

Meanwhile, the Anti-Corruption Establishment has obtained further physical remand of the accused from a court to continue questioning and collect additional evidence.

Investigators believe that the financial trail may lead to more accounts, assets and individuals allegedly connected with the case. The scope of the investigation has therefore been expanded beyond the initial Rs45 million corruption allegation.

ACE officials said they were collecting documentary evidence, bank records and details of properties and vehicles as part of the ongoing inquiry.

Further action, including possible arrests, could not be ruled out as investigators continue to examine the financial record and assets allegedly linked to the accused.

The Anti-Corruption Establishment is expected to make further developments in the case public once the ongoing investigation reaches a conclusive stage.

The case remains under investigation, and the allegations have yet to be proven before a court of law.