The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested two senior officials of the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) in connection with an illegal hiring case.
According to FIA’s Anti-Corruption Wing, PARC Chairman Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali and Director Establishment Ikhlaq Malik were taken into custody in Islamabad. Both are accused of violating recruitment rules and abusing their authority.
An FIR filed by the FIA reveals that 332 individuals were appointed illegally against only 164 approved positions. The hiring took place without proper procedures or merit, sparking a major investigation.
A case has been registered by the state, and FIA teams are now conducting further raids. At least 17 other officials and staff members linked to the illegal hiring case are also being pursued.
FIA sources confirmed that both arrested officers will be produced before a court today. The agency will request physical remand to continue the investigation.
This action is part of a broader crackdown on corruption and irregular appointments within government institutions. The illegal hiring case at PARC has raised serious questions about transparency and accountability in the public sector.
So far, no official response has been issued by PARC regarding the arrests or the allegations. Meanwhile, the FIA continues to collect evidence and statements from relevant departments.
The case is expected to highlight further gaps in oversight within recruitment processes at federal organizations. Authorities have promised a thorough and impartial probe to ensure those responsible are held accountable.
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