ISLAMABAD: A shocking audit report has uncovered widespread financial mismanagement and blatant violations of procurement rules by civil law enforcement agencies under the Interior Ministry during the 2023-24 fiscal year. From unjustified purchases of jogger shoes and excessive ice supplies to advance payments for undelivered boats, billions of rupees were spent without transparency or adherence to regulations. The audit, covering agencies such as the Pakistan Rangers, Frontier Corps, and Coast Guards, reveals a disturbing pattern of favoritism, irregular contract extensions, and reckless spending of taxpayer money.
The audit highlights several glaring irregularities, including a Rs43 million contract for woolen socks and vests awarded to firms that did not meet technical specifications. Instead of rejecting the bids, the evaluation committee approved them, prompting auditors to demand an inquiry. Similarly, Rs45 million was spent on joggers from a technically non-compliant supplier, raising suspicions of preferential treatment. In one of the most egregious cases, the Pakistan Coast Guards paid Rs560 million in advance for boats that were never delivered, violating tender terms and leaving the government at a loss.
Even routine procurements were marred by financial indiscipline. The Frontier Corps KP (North) spent Rs7.8 billion on meat, milk, and cooking oil without fresh contracts, instead extending previous agreements at inflated rates. Meanwhile, FC South DI Khan made Rs297 million in advance payments for clothing items, many of which were not delivered on time. Repeated violations were noted, including Rs61 million spent on substandard joggers—a recurring issue from the previous year. In an absurd misuse of funds, Rs43 million was spent on excessive ice purchases without justification, further exposing systemic waste.
The audit report has called for strict action against those responsible, including officials within the Interior Ministry. However, when approached for comment, the ministry delayed its response, failing to provide any justification for the irregularities. With billions wasted and no accountability in sight, the findings raise serious concerns about financial governance in law enforcement agencies. The question remains: will those involved face consequences, or will these scandals fade away like melting ice?