LAHORE: The Anti-Money Laundering Circle of the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA’s) Punjab Zone, has issued call-up notices to three individuals, including a relative of the former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, in connection with an ongoing investigation into an alleged money laundering scheme involving illegal land transactions with government departments. The notices have been issued under Section 160 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, The Scoop (TS) has learnt.
Primary Accused: Muhammad Sabir Hameed (Sabir Mithu)
Muhammad Sabir Hameed, also known as Sabir Mithu, son of Abdul Hameed Khan and a relative of the former COAS, is at the centre of the investigation. Mithu, residing at multiple addresses in DHA Lahore Cantt and Cavalry Ground, is accused of orchestrating the illegal sale and purchase of land to various government entities. The proceeds from these transactions were reportedly laundered and converted into valuable assets.
According to the notice (No. FIA/AML/E/226-2023/LHR/2608), Mithu is required to appear in person on June 27, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. at the FIA Anti Money Laundering Circle office on 1-Temple Road, Lahore. He must present his original CNIC and detailed records of land transactions from the past decade, both personal and those involving his family and dependents.
The notice explicitly warns, “Non-compliance of this order for attendance and/or non-production of documents will render you liable to proceedings under section 174, 175 Pakistan Penal Code 1860 in the Court of Law.”
Co-accused: Chaudhary Muhammad Ashraf Ghurki
Chaudhary Muhammad Ashraf Ghurki, son of Ch Abid Hameed Ghurki, residing in Model Town, Lahore, has also been implicated in the investigation. Ghurki allegedly collaborated with Mithu in the illicit land transactions and subsequent money laundering activities.
Notice No. FIA/AML/E/226-2023/LHR/2610 directs Ghurki to appear at the same location and time as Mithu. In addition to similar documentation requirements, Ghurki must provide extensive financial records, including FBR returns, details of international assets, and transactions involving foreign currency.
Additional Accused: Hamid Mushtaq
Hamid Mushtaq, son of Malik Mushtaq Ali Khar, residing in Canal View Housing Society, Lahore, is also under scrutiny for his involvement in the scheme. Mushtaq’s notice (No. FIA/AML/E/226-2023/LHR/2609) mandates his appearance on June 28, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. at the FIA office.
Mushtaq is instructed to submit comprehensive records of his financial dealings and land transactions, both domestically and internationally. The notice lists twelve specific categories of information required, from details of off-shore companies to explanations for high-value bank transactions.
FIA’s Stance
Assistant Director Sheraz Umer of the FIA’s Anti Money Laundering Circle, who issued the notices, emphasised the gravity of the allegations. “This investigation is crucial in unveiling the networks involved in laundering proceeds from illegal land transactions. Compliance with these notices is mandatory for advancing the inquiry and ensuring accountability,” Umer stated.
The FIA’s rigorous documentation requirements aim to uncover the extent of the alleged money laundering activities and the assets accumulated through these illicit transactions. The investigation underscores the agency’s commitment to combating financial crimes and maintaining the integrity of government dealings.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with the summonses and provide the requested documentation will result in legal action under sections 174 and 175 of the Pakistan Penal Code, 1860. These sections pertain to the non-attendance in obedience to an order from a public servant and the refusal to produce documents, respectively, which can lead to significant penalties.
As the investigation progresses, further developments are anticipated. The FIA’s proactive measures reflect a broader crackdown on corruption and financial malfeasance within the country.
