Plea bargain of Rs49m approved in Kohistan corruption scandal

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 15th Mar, 2026) An accountability court here approved a plea bargain of Rs49 million in the Kohistan corruption scandal case involving the alleged embezzlement of public funds.

According to details, the accused Jibran Malik was charged with being involved, along with other suspects in the illegal transfer and embezzlement of more than Rs37 billion from the provincial treasury.

During the court proceedings, it was stated that the accused voluntarily expressed his willingness to enter into a plea bargain with the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). He offered to return Rs49.125 million, which was accepted by NAB authorities on March 10.

The court recorded the accused’s statement in which he confirmed that the agreement was made voluntarily and without any pressure.

According to the submitted documents, 37.25 percent of the amount has already been deposited, while the remaining amount will be paid in two installments within three months.

After reviewing the sworn statement and relevant documents, the court approved the plea bargain. Under the agreement, the accused has been released from liability, however, under Section 15 of the National Accountability Ordinance (1999), he will be disqualified from holding public office.

The accused appeared in court on bail, which has now been discharged and the court ordered his release provided he is not wanted in any other case. The court also directed that the case files be completed and submitted to the record room.

APP/vak