PESHAWAR - Pakistan’ Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) is investigating sugar exports to Afghanistan, which led to a shortage of the commodity at home.
The FIA has set up an 11-member team to probe the issue based on the findings of the Sugar Inquiry Commission report. The panel was formed after a hike in sugar price.
Headed by FIA Director Dr Moeen Masood, the delegation includes Customs, Federal Board of Revenue and State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) representatives
According to Geo TV, the delegation will investigate how sugar was being exported to Afghanistan.
On July 23, the government ordered the FBR, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and FIA to look into sugars mills’ affairs.
Money-laundering could be a factor behind the scam, the TV channel suggested, saying if sugar was being exported to Afghanistan, payments should also be coming in from that country.
But many sugar mill owners are allegedly receiving telegraphic transfers for payments for sugar sold to Afghanistan from the US and Dubai.
The commission said in its report that sugar mills paid about Rs22bn in taxes to the government, but Rs12bn was reclaimed in rebates. (Pajhwok)