[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]In a significant move, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has launched an investigation into former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, regarding the alleged illegal possession and sale of valuable gifts from the Toshakhana.
The case centers on the alleged misuse of seven high-value watches and ten other precious gifts, including diamond and gold jewelry. According to an inquiry report obtained by Samaa TV, the items in question include luxury brands such as Graff and Rolex watches. These gifts were reportedly sold without being legally owned or deposited in the Toshakhana, as required by Pakistani law.
Read more:Â IHC Suspends Imran Khan, Bushra Bibis Sentence In Toshakhana Case
The NAB report highlights the unauthorized sale of expensive Graff watches without proper retention protocols. Under the law, all gifts received by public officials must be reported and deposited in the Toshakhana. Only items valued up to Rs30,000 can be retained for free by the recipients.
A critical aspect of the investigation is the alleged involvement of a private appraiser accused of undervaluing a Graff watch by Rs30 million to facilitate its sale. The watch, valued at Rs100.9 million, had only Rs20.1 million deposited into the government treasury, significantly underreporting its value and breaching Toshakhana regulations.
This investigation follows a previous Toshakhana case where the Islamabad High Court suspended the sentences of Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi on April 1. Earlier, on January 31, Accountability Court Judge Muhammad Bashir had sentenced the couple to 14 years of imprisonment each, disqualified Khan from holding any public office for ten years, and imposed a fine of Rs787 million on each, totaling Rs1.58 billion. The judgement stated that the fine would be recoverable as tax arrears, and the time spent in jail would count towards their punishment.
NAB’s ongoing investigation aims to uncover the extent of the misuse of Toshakhana regulations and the unauthorized sale of valuable gifts. The bureau seeks to determine the legality of these transactions and any potential financial misconduct involved.
The findings of NAB’s probe could significantly impact the political landscape in Pakistan, potentially affecting the legal standing and public image of Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]