Hajj starts, arrests continue

Saudi officials have arrested Pakistani contractor Malik Saeed over corruption charges today (Sunday). Saeed was convicted of making poor transportation arrangements for Pakistani pilgrims.

The Pakistani contractor was allegedly appointed by acting Director General Hajj Sultan Shah and Secretary of Religious Affairs Agha Sarwar Qazalbash, say sources. Pakistani pilgrims were constantly complaining about poor transportation that led to Saeed's arrest.

Religious Affairs Minister, Hamid Saeed Kazmi  speaking to Express 24/7 about the arrest said that the ministry would take strict action against all officials who caused pilgrims to suffer. He added that no officer or official has stepped up to claim responsibility for the irregularities in arrangements for Hajj.

Hajj Corruption

Former Director General Rao Shakil was presented before a special magistrate in Islamabad today, where a three-day physical remand was granted to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). Rao Shakil and Adil Morkar were arrested by FIA officials on Saturday, on charges of embezzlement and financial irregularities.

According to Online news agency, which was quoting media reports and FIA sources, the FIA arrested former DG Hajj Rao Shakil for his alleged indulgence in widespread corruption during the course of hiring residential buildings for Pakistani pilgrims in Saudi Arabia and inflicting a loss of Rs one billion to national exchequer. A Saudi prince had also recently written a letter to the Chief Justice of Pakistan in this regard.

Meanwhile, former TCP Director, Abdul Malik has been transferred to FIA Karachi for further interrogation.