ISLAMABAD: The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has so far secured convictions in only two of the 179 mega corruption cases that it had widely publicized, while trials in 21 other references are still underway.
The latest figures, shared by NAB Prosecutor General Syed Ehtesham Qadir with The News, provide an updated overview of the status of the bureau’s high-profile mega corruption cases.
According to the data, NAB currently has 86 references on its record from the original list of 179 mega corruption cases. However, a substantial number of these cases have been affected by amendments to the NAB law.
Of the 86 references currently reflected in NAB records, 41 have either been transferred or returned following changes to the accountability laws. The legal amendments altered the jurisdiction and scope of NAB, resulting in several cases being moved to other forums or returned.
Meanwhile, 21 references are currently undergoing trial, meaning that proceedings against the accused remain pending before the relevant courts.
The data also shows that six cases have ended in acquittal, while three references have been withdrawn or returned. One case has been disposed of, while another remains under investigation.
In addition, four cases have been classified as inactive, two have been terminated, and five cases are currently at the appeal stage.
Despite the large number of cases initially highlighted by NAB as mega corruption references, the bureau has so far obtained convictions in only two cases.
The figures provide an indication of the lengthy and complicated nature of major corruption proceedings in Pakistan. Cases involving multiple accused, extensive financial records, complicated transactions and large volumes of evidence can take years to progress through investigations and trials.
Legal and legislative developments have also affected the status of NAB’s cases. Amendments to the accountability laws resulted in several references being transferred or
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