ACE seizes record of wheat seeds distribution in Mansehra

MANSEHRA: The Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) on Tuesday swung into action and seized record of the Insaf Food Security Programme after receiving complaints of financial embezzlement in distribution of wheat seeds in the district. A team of ACE led by Assistant Director Mukhtar Ahmad raided offices of Agriculture Department. It seized the entire record of wheat distributed under the Insaf Food Security Programme launched by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government to better the financial position of small farmers and increase yield of wheat in the province. “We have seized record of Insaf Food Security Programme after farmers moved us complaining that gratification is demanded for wheat seeds being provided free of cost by the government,” Mohammad Sohail, circle officer ACE told reporters. He said that 27 staff members were absent from duty during the raid. The official said that inquiry was launched after seizing the entire record of the programme and those found involved in embezzlement would be taken to task under relevant laws. He said that the ACE had received complaints that high quality seeds meant for the free distribution among the farmers were sold in market. The official said that during raid farmers had also gathered outside the offices of Agriculture Department.