In a key breakthrough in the Kohistan corruption case, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has accepted a plea bargain request from the main accused, Muhammad Ayub. He has agreed to return Rs1.45 billion, and NAB Chairman has officially approved the request. This move marks significant progress in the long-running investigation into massive embezzlement in development projects.
NAB sources revealed that Muhammad Ayub had transferred Rs3.45 billion through multiple bank transactions. The investigation also found that he had purchased expensive properties in Islamabad, Abbottabad, and Mansehra. Authorities have frozen these properties, and preparations for their auction have already started.
The plea bargain agreement will be formally presented before the accountability court within three days. Once legal procedures are complete, the recovered money will be deposited into the national treasury. NAB officials believe this recovery is a major step in holding corrupt contractors accountable for their actions.
This case relates to fake contracts and large-scale embezzlement in development projects in Kohistan, located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Reports suggest that the corruption caused an estimated loss of Rs40 billion to the national exchequer. The NAB investigation team is still working on the case and expects to make more arrests soon.
Officials say that this case highlights serious flaws in project oversight and monitoring mechanisms. They have urged stronger checks to prevent such large-scale corruption in the future. Public reaction has been strong, with many calling for stricter punishments for those involved in stealing public funds.
The NAB has assured the public that recovery efforts will continue without delay. Authorities are determined to ensure that all illegally gained wealth is recovered and returned to the national treasury to support public development.