JIT still working on Panama Papers probe: Marriyum

ISLAMABAD: State Minister for Information, Broadcasting and National Heritage Marriyum Aurangzeb has expressed grave concern over reports from different sources that the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) probing the Panama Papers case was still busy in its formal proceedings, contrary to the instructions of the Supreme Court.

In a statement issued here Friday, she said: "It is a matter of great concern and we make it clear that we will not accept addition of any paper to volume 10 after 10th of July." The minister said that it was very unfortunate that the JIT was continuing with its meetings spread over many hours, making telephonic contacts with foreign agencies and institutions and sending reminders to them.

She said that the Supreme Court had only allowed the JIT to close its office within seven days, but instead of closure of office, all JIT members and their assisting staff were still working and none of the JIT members had reported back to their respective departments as yet, which was really strange.

She said that if the JIT could not finish its work, then it should have asked for a formal extension by the Supreme Court. She maintained that continuing to work beyond the stipulated date without the permission of the apex court constituted contempt of court.