Web Desk: An accountability court in Pakistan has issued arrest warrants for prominent property tycoon Malik Riaz, his relatives, and several others in a case brought by the National Accountability Bureau, marking a significant escalation in a high-profile corruption investigation.
The court also ordered the seizure of the Mall of Islamabad, transferring ownership of the property to the state, according to court officials.
The accountability court issued arrest warrants for Malik Riaz, Bina Riaz and Ahmed Riaz, along with six other individuals, after hearing a complaint filed by NAB following what prosecutors described as a completed investigation.
NAB prosecutors Manzoor Shah and Hina Ashraf submitted a detailed report by the investigating officer during the hearing, stating that the watchdog had formally filed the reference after reviewing evidence and financial records.
Investigating officer Muhammad Ramzan told the court that action against the accused followed a thorough examination of documentary and material evidence.
During the proceedings, the court ordered three of the accused to submit bail bonds of 500,000 rupees each, court officials said. Meanwhile, the court directed authorities to execute arrest warrants against the remaining suspects.
The court scheduled further hearings to ensure compliance with its orders and to determine the next steps in the case.
Separately, the court ordered the Mall of Islamabad to be taken into official custody and confiscated in favor of the government. Authorities issued a formal notification to relevant departments to implement the order, officials said.
NAB officials said the action was taken in connection with allegations of financial irregularities and purported losses to the national exchequer.
The court said it would provide all parties the opportunity to present their defense in accordance with the law. However, it warned that it would not tolerate any failure to comply with judicial directives.
The case remains under review, with future hearings expected to address the appearance of the accused and outline further legal proceedings.
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