NAB alleges Bahria Town illegally occupied 18,000 acres of government land in Sindh

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has uncovered alleged large-scale illegal occupation of government land involving Bahria Town

ISLAMABAD/KARACHI: The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has uncovered alleged large-scale illegal occupation of government land involving Bahria Town Karachi, with approximately 18,000 acres belonging to the Malir Development Authority (MDA) reportedly transferred to the private developer in violation of legal requirements.

According to sources familiar with the investigation, the land was originally intended for public welfare and affordable housing. However, it was allegedly transferred to Bahria Town during 2013–14 through an arrangement described as land adjustment, exchange and consolidation.

Alleged illegal land exchange

NAB sources claim that Bahria Town was required to provide alternative land to the Sindh government in exchange for the prime property in Malir. However, the promised replacement land was allegedly not provided as agreed. Instead, barren, hilly and inaccessible land near the Balochistan border was reportedly offered, while the valuable Malir land remained under Bahria Town’s control.

The Supreme Court, in its May 4, 2018, judgment, had declared the land exchange illegal, according to details cited in the investigation. Despite the ruling, questions remain regarding the extent of the land held by the developer.

Survey of Pakistan figures reportedly place the total area in Bahria Town’s possession at 25,601 acres. Of this, 7,220 acres were allegedly exchanged illegally in February 2015. Additionally, 1,644 acres recorded in Jamshoro were identified as government land.

NAB’s investigation officer also informed the Supreme Court about 59 unauthorised water bores allegedly extracting 1.7 million gallons daily. Outstanding dues payable to MDA were reported at Rs5.5 billion.

Thirty-three individuals nominated

NAB has filed Reference No. 01/2025 before the Accountability Court Karachi, naming 33 accused in connection with the alleged land scam.

Those nominated include Bahria Town chairman Malik Riaz, his son Ahmed Ali Riaz, vice chairman Zain Malik, former Sindh chief minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah and senior minister Sharjeel Memon. Several former revenue officials, Malir Development Authority officials, Sindh Building Control Authority directors and district administration officers have also been named.

Sources further claim that some individuals allegedly involved in the case continue to hold important positions in the Sindh government.

The financial loss to the national exchequer has reportedly been estimated at Rs708.08 billion, while other assessments have placed the figure at approximately Rs783 billion.

Arrest warrants and property seizures

According to sources, Malik Riaz and his son Ali Riaz have been declared proclaimed offenders, with perpetual arrest warrants issued against them. Interpol Red Notices were reportedly issued in April 2026.

NAB had also announced the freezing of 457 properties in January 2025, including properties allegedly linked to the family and associates. The reported assets included properties in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, as well as a luxury residence in Karachi.

The bureau has maintained that those accused of wrongdoing should return to Pakistan and face legal proceedings.

The present case is separate from the Rs460 billion settlement approved by the Supreme Court in 2019 concerning 16,896 acres of land, which Bahria Town reportedly failed to pay in full.

The reference remains under trial, and further proceedings are expected as the accountability process continues.