Lahore Court Grants Two-Day Remand for NCCIA Official in Bribery Probe
A local court in Lahore has granted a two-day physical remand for Assistant Director Shoaib Riaz from the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) as part of an ongoing bribery and corruption investigation. The court also transferred other accused officials to judicial custody, marking a significant development in the case.
The accused individuals were brought before the Lahore District Courts on Thursday following their initial three-day remand. The hearing was presided over by Magistrate Naeem Wattoo, who examined the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) request for an additional five-day remand. This move comes after the FIA filed charges against several officials allegedly involved in financial misconduct.
Defense Challenges FIA’s Evidence and Investigative Practices
Representing the accused, Advocate Ali Ashfaq raised concerns about the lack of credible evidence supporting the charges. He questioned why influencer Ducky Bhai and other alleged participants had not been cleared or charged despite the filing of challans. The defense emphasized that there was no proof of any meeting, exchange of money, or specific amount involved in the alleged corruption.
The defense counsel also criticized the FIA for its selective approach to the investigation, pointing out that those accused of giving bribes were being overlooked. “Why has Aroob not been detained if bribery is a two-sided crime?” he asked during the proceedings. This challenge highlighted the defense’s belief that the investigation lacked fairness and thoroughness.
Court Rejects Extended Remand for Another Officer
The court rejected the FIA’s plea for an extended remand of another officer, Salman, citing a lack of evidence identifying him as a frontman in the alleged scheme. Magistrate Wattoo remarked that “at this pace, the investigation won’t finish even in fourteen months.” This statement underscored the court’s concern about the efficiency and progress of the probe.
Prosecutors responded by emphasizing the complexity and scale of the alleged financial misconduct, arguing that more time was necessary for a comprehensive investigation. However, the magistrate stressed the importance of accountability, stating, “Wealth itself is not a sin – but becoming rich through corruption certainly is.”
Complainant Appears in Court
Complainant Aroob Jatoi appeared before the court in person, represented by Barrister Amrat Ahmed Sheikh. His presence highlighted the seriousness of the allegations and the role of the complainant in the ongoing legal proceedings. The FIA continues its inquiry into the case, with further hearings expected in the coming weeks.
Key Points from the Hearing
- The court granted a two-day remand for Assistant Director Shoaib Riaz.
- Other accused officials were transferred to judicial custody.
- The defense challenged the FIA’s evidence and investigative practices.
- The court rejected an extended remand for another officer due to insufficient evidence.
- Prosecutors argued for more time to complete the investigation.
- The magistrate emphasized the need for strict accountability in cases of corruption.
- Complainant Aroob Jatoi appeared in court with his legal representative.