An officer of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) was suspended over charges of inefficiency and negligence in duty. According to a notification issued by the anti-graft body, an inquiry has been launched against NAB Lahore Deputy Director M Ramzan after his suspension. However, the official would be given a chance to defend the charges levelled against him. Reports suggested that NAB has also started an inquiry into the conduct of Deputy Director NAB Sukkur Mumtaz Gondal, who had earlier been suspended for three months by Justice (r) Javed Iqbal. At least 85 officers of the accountability body have come under investigation on the direct orders of the NAB chief ever since he took office, our of which 23 officers have been dismissed from service. Recently, the watchdog chief gave warning of strict action against all the officials who have been trying to influence enquires being carried out by NAB. A notification stated that the chairman has taken serious view of illegal intervention by senior officers of the anti-graft body in NAB headquarters and regions in ongoing cases at different stages. The notice added that whoever would be found involved in influencing inquiry for any reason would be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law. “All officers of NAB are required to work within their domain/mandate in order to ensure merit/rule of law for efficient and logical conclusion of the cases without fear and favour,” the letter reads. Published in Daily Times, April 23rd 2018.