The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has announced that there is insufficient evidence linking renowned singer Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan to money laundering, tax evasion, or any other illegal activities. Pakistan’s premier investigative body disclosed that it has concluded its probe into the alleged money laundering and tax evasion case involving the popular singer, citing a lack of evidence to substantiate any wrongdoing.
The Additional Director of FIA’s Lahore Zone confirmed that the investigation into Rahat Ali Khan and others has been officially closed as per the recommendations from the field inquiry unit, which found no evidence against Mr. Khan. According to the FIA senior officer, available records do not implicate Rahat Fateh Ali Khan in any unlawful currency smuggling activities.
The FIA initiated an inquiry earlier this year against Rahat Ali Khan and 182 other frequent travelers departing from Lahore International Airport for work abroad, based on data regarding frequent travelers, with a focus on identifying individuals engaged in currency smuggling or money laundering.
Read More: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan Files Case Against Ex-Manager for Blackmail
It is noteworthy that the FIA launched the money laundering and tax evasion inquiry against Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and others based on their travel records. The agency clarified that although Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s name was among the frequent travelers’ list, no incriminating evidence was found against him regarding illegal currency smuggling.
Recently, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan‘s former manager Salman Ahmed claimed that the singer had earned over eight billion Rupees from concerts over 12 years. However, sources within relevant departments asserted that Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has diligently paid his taxes and remains in compliance with the laws.
Sources from the FIA and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) confirmed that Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has fulfilled all tax obligations for his local and international earnings. After reviewing Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s tax records and consultations with the FBR, the FIA decided to clear him of any wrongdoing, considering his up-to-date tax compliance.
Despite previous taxation notices, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s accountants have settled all outstanding dues with the FBR.
This article was received directly from the author.