FIA Suspends Officials Over LESCO Corruption Charges
The corruption scandal involving LESCO and FIA officials has sparked widespread concern and calls for accountability. The suspensions of 11 FIA officials are a step towards addressing these concerns, but more needs to be done to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that the institutions are cleaned up.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has suspended 11 officials from its Lahore Zone, including inspectors and sub-inspectors, due to their alleged involvement in corruption collusion with Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) officials. This move follows the findings of two internal inquiry reports that exposed irregularities and corruption within the organization.
The suspensions are based on the reports titled "Inquiry Report on Issues Related to LESCO" and "Inquiry Report: Corrupt Practices – Connivance of LESCO & FIA Officials", led by former Federal Secretary Shahid Khan and Additional Secretary Sohail Habib Tajik. The reports highlighted corruption and collusion between FIA personnel and LESCO officials, including over-billing, wrongful electrification of a housing society, and transfers on "political grounds".
The FIA has taken action against its officials following directives from the Ministry, issuing orders for the immediate suspension and transfer of officers to FIA Headquarters Islamabad. This move is seen as a step towards increasing institutional accountability in the energy and enforcement sectors, as public concern over corruption continues to grow.
The matter is still under investigation, with a fact-finding inquiry committee led by former federal secretary Shahid Khan and additional secretary Sohail Habib Tajik looking into the allegations. The suspensions of FIA officials are a significant development in the case, and it remains to be seen what further action will be taken against those involved in the corruption scandal.