KARACHI: The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has broadened its investigation into Bahria Town Karachi, with the total number of inquiries and cases now reaching 14.

The cases involve serious allegations of land fraud, illegal allotments, money laundering, and public deception.

NAB reports that fraudulent allotments of thousands of acres were made in Bahria Town projects. In Jamshoro, bogus land entries and record alterations allowed vast tracts of land to be absorbed into the housing scheme. Similar scrutiny is underway in Malir, where over 17,000 acres of government land were allegedly exchanged and adjusted unlawfully.

The investigation also covers the sale and purchase of properties without official fees, and the purchase of 527 kanals in Murree from income allegedly linked to Bahria Town Karachi.

Another major case highlights the illegal allotment of land worth Rs6 billion in 2015 that was sold for just Rs383 million. Allegations of non-delivery of booked plots, non-payment of EOBI dues, and the illegal use of land reserved for the K-IV water project are also included.

NAB is further examining the construction of illegal buildings in violation of SBCA rules, raising concerns about urban planning and regulatory compliance.

Prominent figures named in these inquiries include Bahria Town founder Malik Riaz, his son Ahmed Ali Riaz, Zain Malik, and other family members. Former Sindh chief minister Qaim Ali Shah, deputy commissioners, and several officers of the Board of Revenue, SBCA, EOBI, Water Board, and Land Utilisation Department have also been implicated.

Additionally, multiple estate agents, developers, and officers of Malir and Hyderabad Development Authorities are under investigation.

The NAB Karachi probe underscores the growing pressure on Bahria Town over land scams, financial irregularities, and regulatory violations.