Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has made a serious accusation, alleging that real estate tycoon Malik Riaz and Bahria Town are involved in a massive money laundering operation. This revelation adds to the ongoing legal troubles facing Riaz, according to recent reports.
In a televised press conference, the minister claimed that a raid by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) uncovered what he called “incontrovertible proof” of corruption linked to Malik Riaz and Bahria Town. The evidence reportedly points to a money laundering scheme amounting to a staggering Rs1.12 billion.
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The FIA’s raid took place at Safari Hospital in Rawalpindi, which, according to the minister, was being used as a front to store records and stash cash. He further alleged that Bahria Town employees at the site attempted to destroy documents as the FIA began its operation.
The minister also revealed that hospital ambulances were used to discreetly move money and documents, helping avoid detection by authorities.
During the raid, two individuals found at the hospital were allegedly connected to a hawala and hundi network. The FIA reportedly traced their links back to Bahria Town’s Chief Financial Officer. Tarar claimed that senior leadership at Bahria Town was operating a large-scale laundering racket to transfer money abroad.
While Rs1.12 billion has already been unearthed, the minister suggested this may just be the beginning, hinting that “even greater amounts” could surface as the investigation continues.
He added that using the hospital for this illicit activity had dealt a significant blow to Pakistan’s economy. The government is expected to intensify its crackdown, with the FIA said to possess further information on those involved.
The information minister urged all implicated individuals to surrender voluntarily. As of now, neither Malik Riaz nor Bahria Town has issued a response to the allegations.