PTBP Web Desk
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has suspended the procurement process for 1,010 vehicles until an “optional analysis” is conducted, along with a review by the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA). FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial made this announcement while addressing the Senate Standing Committee on Finance. Additionally, he urged that allegations of life threats to Senator Faisal Vawda by certain tax officials be investigated by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).
The issue of purchasing 1,010 vehicles was raised by former federal minister and Senator Faisal Vawda before the Senate committee. Given the concerns surrounding the procurement, the committee has decided to refer the matter to the FIA for a detailed investigation.
During the proceedings, Chairman Langrial voluntarily presented himself for full accountability and urged the Senate committee to allow the PPRA Board to review the procurement process. He assured the committee that the procurement process would remain frozen until the review is completed. He also stated that a comprehensive investigation report from the FBR would be submitted to the committee. If the committee believes an external agency should be involved, the FBR welcomes that decision.
Langrial highlighted the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms within the FBR. He emphasized that identifying non-filers and ensuring tax compliance is challenging without direct market visits, particularly due to the prevalence of cash-based transactions. The FBR currently operates with 25 tax offices, with each office covering multiple districts.
Chairman Langrial disclosed that a key committee overseeing the procurement of vehicles was led by FBR Member Inland Revenue Operations, Dr. Hamid Ateeq Sarwar, who has been recognized by intelligence agencies as one of the most honest tax officials. Another senior member of the committee has also been declared among the most honest officials by intelligence agencies. Among the nine officials rated as the most trustworthy, former FBR Chairman Amjad Zubair Tawana, Saadia Sadaf Gilani, and Dr. Hamid Ateeq Sarwar were highlighted for their integrity.
Senator Faisal Vawda alleged that certain FBR officials had threatened his life due to his stance on the vehicle procurement issue. Responding to these claims, FBR Chairman Langrial stated that a criminal investigation should be conducted by the FIA to determine the veracity of the allegations.
Vawda also claimed that tax officials conducted a raid on a multinational car manufacturing company to exert pressure. Furthermore, he presented a list of 54 tax officials allegedly involved in corrupt activities, including the illegal accumulation of gold and other assets.
In response to these serious accusations, Chairman Langrial assured that a high-level investigation would be conducted. He vowed that strict action would be taken against any individuals found guilty. To ensure transparency, he reiterated that the procurement of vehicles would remain on hold until a full review is completed.
Senator Saleem Mandviwala underscored the importance of adhering to procurement rules and called for the PPRA Board to thoroughly assess the vehicle purchases. He stressed that any procurement must comply with PPRA regulations to maintain transparency and accountability.
The ongoing developments highlight the growing scrutiny over FBR’s procurement decisions and reinforce the need for stringent oversight in financial and administrative matters.
