Gujrat police have launched an investigation after Rs4 million was reportedly stolen from the home of two FO employees.
The theft occurred on March 12 at a rented house where the employees, Ameer Shaukat and Irfan Ahmed, live. According to the police report, unknown individuals broke into the house and took the money. The employees immediately filed a complaint at the Civil Lines police station.
A government circular issued by the Foreign Office has asked the FO employees to explain the source of the large cash. Officials noted that the employees’ official salaries are minimal. Both Ameer Shaukat and Irfan Ahmed were asked to submit a written explanation within three days, by March 16.
Ameer Shaukat, working as an Assistant Protocol Officer, is responsible for verifying documents for overseas use. This includes certifications and official signatures. Sources say he has authority to authenticate documents, which has become a critical task amid rising international demand.
Reports suggest that FO employees have faced allegations of misconduct in the past. Complaints of potential corruption surfaced, especially related to the processing of apostille and document verification. This comes after Spain announced plans to legalize undocumented migrants starting April 1, increasing demand for official documents.
Agents reportedly collected bribes ranging from Rs3,000 to Rs5,000 for standard document verification. For apostille services, bribes of up to Rs21,000 per application were allegedly charged. Officials stated that around 400–500 apostille requests are processed daily, putting additional pressure on FO employees.
Authorities confirmed that the investigation into the cash theft is ongoing. The Foreign Office emphasized the need for transparency and warned that any irregularities by FO employees will be thoroughly examined.
The case has drawn public attention, raising questions about security and accountability measures for FO employees handling sensitive responsibilities.
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