Quetta: The Balochistan Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) has apprehended two former senior officials in connection with a fraudulent hiring scandal and abuse of authority.
Those arrested include ex–Deputy Director General of ACE, Babar Bugti, and former District Accounts Officer of Margat.
According to an official release, the arrests were carried out on the instructions of Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, who directed strict measures against corruption.
Following a thorough investigation, a formal case has been filed, and further inquiries are underway.
The probe, led by ACE Director General Ghulam Abbas and Deputy Director General Ahmed Umar Baloch, uncovered that on June 15, 2023, at least 36 unlawful appointments were made in the Education Department, creating a significant financial burden on the provincial treasury. Investigators confirmed these appointments violated the Balochistan Rules and Regulations Act of 1991.
The findings concluded that then–Deputy Director General Babar Bugti and the District Accounts Officer of Margat abused their official powers.
Both suspects are now in custody as additional legal action and accountability proceedings continue.
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The ACE reiterated its determination to bring all individuals involved in corruption to justice and stated that more information will be shared as the investigation progresses
