FIA penalises 12 officials in two months in accountability drive

Islamabad:The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has intensified its departmental accountability process under the chairmanship of Director General Riffat Mukhtar Raja, resulting in disciplinary action against 12 officials over the past two months for corruption, misconduct, and poor investigation.

The rigorous campaign aims to purge the institution of corruption and negligence, as stated by the DG FIA, who emphasized, “There is no place in FIA for officials involved in corruption, negligence, or poor investigation.”

A significant focus of the action has been the dismissal of staff found guilty of serious infractions: Ten officials dismissed; which included two inspectors, seven sub-inspectors, and one lower division clerk (LDC), was permanently removed from service. The charges for their dismissal included corruption, poor investigation, and absenteeism.

Additionally, two inspectors faced demotion, being reduced in rank to sub-inspector. The dismissed officials were serving in the Lahore, Islamabad, and Faisalabad zones, highlighting the nationwide reach of the accountability process.

In addition to severe action, a number of officials received minor punishments for unsatisfactory performance and poor investigation: Minor penalties were awarded to three inspectors, ten sub-inspectors, one Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI), and one constable in investigating ranks.

Disciplinary action against clerical staff, was also taken against clerical and administrative staff, with an assistant, two upper division clerks (UDCs), and one lower division clerk (LDC) receiving minor penalties.

Director General Riffat Mukhtar Raja reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining a clean and efficient force, stating that a "rigorous accountability process is underway to rid the institution of corruption and black sheep.”

He stressed that strict action against illegal activities is crucial, concluding that, “Only through accountability can human trafficking and corruption be eliminated.” He warned that "Officers showing negligence will be dealt with strictly."