NAB starts inquiry into PTA’s failure to collect dues from telecom companies

KARACHI: Following the action by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on the reports suggesting more than 75 billion rupees of damage to the national treasury due to the negligence of Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Karachi has launched an inquiry into the failure of the PTA to collect billions of rupees dues from B Wireless Local Loop (WLL) and Long Distance International (LDI) companies of Pakistan Telecom Authority.

NAB Karachi Bureau has indicated the action in this regard and has issued a call-up notice, directing the Director General Licensing of PTA to appear before the inquiry along with all relevant original records and documents.

The records include a comprehensive update on the current status of the litigation between the PTA and Wireless Local Loops (WLL) Long Distance International (LDI) companies regarding the non-payment of outstanding dues.

Furthermore, PTA was instructed to bring along the name of the companies against which suits have been filed, the total amount of outstanding dues sought to be recovered, and the details of the Court cases, including case numbers, court names, and current status.

According to the details, PTA’s failure to comply with the notice may lead to further action under the National Accountability Ordinance (NAO) 1999, including arrest and prosecution.

Sources inside Pakistan Telecom Authority told Daily Ausaf that a telecom company has provided details to the NAB administration on which the NAB administration has asked for records.

The development comes as part of NAB’s efforts to tackle corruption and ensure accountability in government institutions. The inquiry is expected to shed light on the circumstances leading to the PTA’s failure to collect dues and those responsible for the financial losses.