FIA uncovers 2700 overseas properties of Pakistanis

ISLAMABAD: The director general of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on Wednesday informed the Supreme Court that 2700 overseas properties owned by Pakistanis have been unearthed amid the investigation.

He made this revelation during hearing of the case regarding undeclared foreign bank accounts of Pakistanis.

Following the major development in the case, the Supreme Court directed the FIA to obtain affidavits from the owners of 2700 properties within 15 days.

The top court further sought a list of all Pakistanis who have their foreign bank accounts undisclosed, while also mentioning, if the apex court’s orders hinder the investment in the country then hand over the job to the government task force.

Chief Justice Nisar instructed the investigation authority to complete the investigations and other proceedings on immediate basis.

Moreover, the Attorney General informed the court that laws are being made to curb the smuggling and illegal transfer of money.

Sparing 15 days to submit a report on the status of cited legislation, the Supreme Court adjourned the hearing for two weeks.

In another case related to money laundering, FIA is investigating high profile personalities including Asif Ali Zardari, his sister Faryal Talpur and his other close aides.

The Supreme Court in July had taken up a suo motu case regarding fake bank accounts that revolves around a 2015 inquiry into the suspicious transactions when 29 ‘benami’ bank accounts were identified.

Former president is among seven individuals who were found involved in transacting Rs 35 bn suspiciously.