In a first, FBR seizes Benami property

ISLAMABAD: The FBR’s Commissionerate of Anti-Benami Initiative (ABI), Islamabad, has confiscated its first-ever immovable properties, Plot No 168-A (Corner), area 816 sq yards and Plot No 174-A (Corner), area 991 sq yards, Block H, Pakistan Employees Cooperative Housing Eociety (PECHS) under Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 2017.

According to FBR’s announcement made here on Saturday, these plots have been officially transferred to the Federal Government of Pakistan, with all rights and titles now vest in the federal government. The investigation commenced following a complaint indicating potential benami ownership of the aforesaid properties.

Upon inquiry, it was revealed that the individual listed as the owner was not registered with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and disclaimed any knowledge of these properties. The Benamidar has stated that her Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) has been misused for registration of these plots.

Subsequent to a thorough investigation, a reference was filed before the Benami Adjudicating Authority Bench-I Islamabad, and the case was decided in favour of the Benami Zone-I, Islamabad. Moreover, the Adjudicating Authority has also issued confiscation order of these properties.

Following the completion of all legal procedures, the properties were confiscated with the assistance of local law enforcement agencies.

This action aligns with the government’s intensified efforts against benami assets, which gained momentum in July 2019 with the establishment of three Ani-Benami Zones across the country.

These zones, operating under the supervision of a Directorate General ABI, have filed over 187 references involving various categories of assets, including shares, bank accounts, vehicles, land and buildings. The ABI Zone-I, Islamabad, has been actively involved in identifying and investigating benami properties in the KP, Civil Division of Rawalpindi and Islamabad Capital Territory. The successful confiscation of these plots mark a significant step in the government’s ongoing campaign to eliminate benami transactions, non-documentation of economy, detect/catch the ill-gotten and untaxed money, curb white collar crimes and generate resources for the state.