FIA probes embassy shuttle scam

Officials summoned over Rs1,500 fare for 3km ride; questions raised on revenue flow

ISLAMABAD:

Charging Rs1,500 for a three-kilometre journey, allegations of millions of rupees in corruption have surfaced in the diplomatic shuttle service due to an alleged nexus between staff and an agent mafia. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has initiated an inquiry.

According to sources, the FIA has formally begun investigating alleged financial irregularities worth millions in fares charged by the shuttle service transporting citizens to embassies in the federal capital, along with illegal activities of agents.

The agency has summoned shuttle service supervisor Ijaz Qureshi and security in-charge Imran Kiyani, seeking records and asking under what authority Rs1,500 per passenger is being charged.

Sources said between 1,000 and 1,500 passengers use the service daily, raising questions whether the Rs1.5 to Rs2 million collected each day is being deposited in the government treasury or pocketed privately. The FIA is examining the matter.

The accused are also alleged to have facilitated agents in sending individuals to various embassies without valid appointments. Sources claimed that people without appointments were charged Rs25,000 to Rs30,000 and still sent onward.

FIA officials stated that the allegations are under investigation and cases will be registered if evidence is found. Meanwhile, CDA Deputy Director Rizwan Ahmed told Express News that some employees had been summoned by the FIA, but he was unaware of the specifics.

FIA officials said multiple complaints had been received against CDA staff operating the shuttle service, prompting the inquiry. Authorities have been asked to explain who authorized the Rs1,500 fare and into which accounts the money is being deposited.

Complaints also alleged that shuttle staff, in collusion with agents, sent individuals without embassy appointments, posing a serious security risk.

A similar incident occurred months ago when over 100 people without appointments were sent outside the UAE embassy.

Sources said agents, in collaboration with shuttle staff, send irrelevant individuals to embassy premises, which constitutes a major security concern. Reports from various institutions against shuttle service staff already exist.