In a significant development, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) today returned assets worth more than 6 billion rupees to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, marking a significant milestone in the Upper Kohistan financial fraud investigation, which is one of Pakistan’s largest corruption cases.
The assets recovered from a vast network involved in the embezzlement of public funds were handed over to the Chief Secretary of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa by NAB Chairman Lieutenant General (R) Nazir Ahmed during a formal ceremony in Peshawar. This is the initial phase of a broad asset recovery initiative led by NAB Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The investigation began in April 2025, revealing illegal siphoning of over 37 billion rupees from public funds in Upper Kohistan. The complex system of financial irregularities facilitated these illegal transactions for over a decade.
Using modern financial tracking and forensic techniques, NAB Khyber Pakhtunkhwa traced more than 1,500 bank accounts and uncovered the complex web of transactions. A significant discovery occurred when Murtaza Khan’s bank account was identified as a key conduit for the transfer of illicit funds, involving transactions of approximately 17 billion rupees.
The investigation also led to notable recoveries through plea bargains and asset forfeiture, demonstrating NAB’s unprecedented efforts for accountability.
During the ceremony, the NAB Chairman praised the dedication and professionalism of the investigative team, calling this case a testament to NAB’s commitment against corruption.
He said, “The recovery of these assets is a manifestation of our commitment to safeguarding public resources and ensuring their use for public welfare.”
NAB has clarified that the asset recovery process is ongoing, with over 27 billion rupees currently frozen, awaiting further legal proceedings. Preparations for the next phase of asset recovery and transfer are underway, with the aim of channeling these resources towards public service.
The Bureau renews its commitment to transparent and legally compliant investigations and case pursuits, ensuring that public resources are protected and those responsible for corruption are held accountable.
This significant asset recovery serves as a powerful reminder that public resources are a national trust, and NAB will continue to take all necessary steps to curb corruption and ensure transparent utilization.