NAB Summons Former Senator Azam Swati in Upper Kohistan Funds Inquiry
PESHAWAR: The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has issued a formal notice to former senator and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Azam Khan Swati, requesting his appearance on June 23 in connection with an ongoing investigation into the alleged misappropriation of over Rs30 billion from government accounts in Upper Kohistan.
According to a notice issued by NAB’s Deputy Director (Coordination) Mohammad Kamran, Mr. Swati has been summoned under Section 19 of the National Accountability Ordinance (NAO), 1999. The bureau believes Mr. Swati may hold relevant records and could assist in the fair and transparent progress of the inquiry.
The notice specifically refers to a transaction allegedly involving a firm, Kohistan Associates and Builders, which was reportedly processed through the former senator’s bank account in 2024. Mr. Swati has been asked to bring all relevant documents related to that transaction when appearing before NAB’s combined investigation team.
The notice further states that non-compliance could result in legal action as per the accountability laws.
Investigation Background
The ongoing inquiry began after NAB Khyber Pakhtunkhwa received what it described as credible information about large-scale irregularities. The bureau alleges that officials from the Communication and Works Department and the District Accounts Office in Upper Kohistan, in collaboration with a local bank branch, were involved in irregular fund withdrawals.
According to NAB, payments were allegedly made in the names of contractors who did not execute any civil works. These funds were then deposited in various bank accounts, distributed among individuals, and moved through multiple channels, resulting in significant financial loss to the national exchequer.
Several properties linked to the suspects have been frozen during the investigation, with the accountability court confirming multiple such orders.
NAB’s Commitment to Accountability
NAB has reiterated its commitment to transparency and fair investigation in all ongoing cases. The bureau continues to follow due process in accordance with the law, and encourages cooperation from individuals who may hold key information.
