Maryam orders contractor’s arrest over Khanewal scam

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has taken notice of alleged irregularities in the Khanewal beautification project and directed authorities to investigate the former deputy commissioner over advance payments made to the contractor.

According to a spokesperson for the Punjab government, the chief minister has ordered the immediate arrest of the contractor involved in the project and directed officials to recover the public money allegedly misappropriated.

The controversy centres on the Akbar Bazaar beautification project in Khanewal, where the contractor reportedly received advance payments but subsequently fled without completing the assigned work.

The spokesperson said the project had also faced unnecessary delays, raising concerns about its execution and the handling of public funds.

Taking serious notice of the alleged irregularities, Maryam Nawaz directed the relevant authorities to include the former deputy commissioner of Khanewal in the investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the advance payment and establish responsibility.

She also ordered the contractor’s immediate arrest and recovery of the amount paid in advance.

The chief minister’s directives aim to investigate the alleged financial irregularities, identify those responsible and ensure accountability for delays and misuse of public funds in the development project.