The Supreme Court of Pakistan has sought a detailed progress report from the trial court regarding the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) corruption case, directing the lower judiciary to expedite proceedings.
The apex court also issued notices on petitions filed by the EOBI seeking the cancellation of bails previously granted to the accused.
A three-member bench, headed by Justice Shahid Waheed, presided over the hearing on Monday concerning the pre-arrest bail applications of Ammar Ahmed Khan and others.
Following a direct order from the court, Director General of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Dr Usman Anwar, appeared in person.
The primary accused, Ammar Ahmed Khan, appeared before the bench alongside co-accused individuals, including his 82-year-old mother-in-law. Senior advocate Ali Zafar represented the petitioners.
During the hearing, Justice Shahid Waheed observed that the EOBI lacked the legal mandate to invest in real estate ventures.
Expressing his concern over the long-standing grievances of the affectees, he remarked that what could be a greater injustice than the fact that, even after thirteen years, those who paid their hard-earned money have yet to receive their plots?
The prosecution maintains that the accused collected over Rs 1 billion from citizens but failed to deliver the promised plots. DG FIA Dr. Usman Anwar assured the bench that the agency would ensure effective prosecution of the case moving forward.
After issuing notices to the respondents regarding the EOBI’s plea for bail cancellations, the Supreme Court adjourned the hearing for an indefinite period.