NAB Launches Inquiry into PTA’s Failure to Recover LDI & WLL Dues

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has initiated an inquiry into the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority’s (PTA) alleged failure to recover billions of rupees in dues from telecom companies. The inquiry was launched by NAB’s Karachi bureau, which has sought details of the outstanding amounts and records of payments made by the telecom companies. NAB has issued a call-up notice to the PTA’s Director General Licensing, directing him to appear before the inquiry committee along with all relevant records and documents. The notice seeks details of the outstanding amounts, payment records, correspondence with telecom companies, and internal inquiries and reports related to the case. The inquiry was launched after NAB received complaints about the PTA’s failure to recover Rs. 78 billion in dues from 10 Wireless Local Loop (LL) and Long Distance International (LDI) companies. The alleged PTA’s failure to recover the dues has resulted in significant financial losses to the national exchequer. Sources close to the matter told ProPakistani that one telecom company has provided details to NAB, which has sought records from the company. PTA sources claimed that all LDI companies have agreed to pay 100% of the outstanding amounts, and a steering committee formed by the Ministry of IT is working to resolve the issue. NAB’s inquiry aims to identify those responsible for the failure to recover dues and initiate legal action to recover the amounts. The inquiry is part of NAB’s efforts to curb corruption and ensure accountability in government departments.