Millions Vanish From Pakistan Embassies Abroad

Pakistan's Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has revealed significant financial irregularities at Pakistani embassies abroad, including Austria, Bulgaria, Bulgaria, Abu Dhabi, Berlin, and the United States. The committee, chaired by Syed Naveed Qamar, reviewed audit objections during a parliamentary session on Wednesday.

An Austrian embassy accountant is accused of embezzling Rs. 165.6 million by transferring funds into personal bank accounts. This individual was referred to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and two FIRs were registered. However, the accused was arrested and later released on bail. The FIA's investigation progress was questioned by the PAC Chairman.

In Bulgaria, an alleged Rs. 29 million embezzlement at the Pakistan Embassy remains under investigation. A committee was formed in September 2026, but was unable to travel to Bulgaria due to travel restrictions. The committee recommended allowing officials to travel abroad for investigations.

The committee also raised concerns over the use of Rs. 17.2 million from the Community Welfare Fund by the Pakistan Community Welfare School in Abu Dhabi. The school's funding was deemed necessary for its operation, as fee collections were insufficient to cover costs.

A significant concern was the holding of over Rs. 1.22 billion in Higher Education Commission (HEC) funds by Pakistan's Embassy in Berlin. The funds were withdrawn without replenishment, and the embassy faced financial difficulties. The committee directed the Higher Education Commission to recover the amount within three months.

Other irregularities included Pakistan's mission in Dhaka maintaining unapproved bank accounts, rental income deposited into unauthorized accounts in Vienna, and unsurrendered construction funds in Australia. The PAC directed departments to address these issues and improve financial oversight at Pakistani missions abroad.