FIA Investigates Rs62 Million Loss in Utility Stores Ghee Deals
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has launched a probe into alleged financial irregularities concerning ghee purchases by Utility Stores Corporation (USC) in 2022, following claims of a potential Rs62 million loss to the national treasury.
Details of the FIA Inquiry into Utility Stores Ghee Procurement
Following a registered FIR (No. 69/2025) under the FIA Act 1974, the agency has ordered USC’s Managing Director to provide full documentation related to last year’s ghee procurement within seven days. The FIA Anti-Corruption Circle Islamabad Zone, led by Deputy Director Mian Faizan-ul-Haq, demands official copies of tender documents, bidding files, purchase orders, invoices, payment vouchers, and meeting records from relevant committees overseeing the procurement process.
Reports show that in May 2022, USC bought premium Dalda Ghee at Rs489.53 per kilogram. Yet, during the same period, it acquired around 2,000 metric tonnes of Manpasand Ghee, categorised as lower quality, at a higher rate of Rs520 per kilogram. This is striking given that Manpasand was previously purchased for Rs430 per kilogram in March. The discrepancy where the cheaper grade was more expensive than the premium one has raised suspicion of misuse of authority and financial loss.
The FIA’s investigation aims to verify these anomalies through detailed audit trails. The agency has requested any prior internal or special audits, departmental inquiries, or fact-finding reports related to these purchases to assess the legitimacy and financial impact accurately.
Significance of the Probe for Pakistani Businesses and Consumers
The case shines a critical light on procurement practices in government-owned retail chains like Utility Stores, which play a vital role in supplying affordable essential goods across Pakistan. Mismanagement or corruption affecting bulk commodity purchases can have ripple effects, potentially inflating costs for consumers or causing losses that affect public resources.
For Pakistani citizens who rely on Utility Stores for subsidised products, ensuring transparency and accountability in these transactions is crucial. This investigation highlights the growing scrutiny on public procurement and the commitment to identify and address financial misdemeanours.
As the inquiry progresses, the FIA will evaluate evidence and legal findings to hold accountable anyone found responsible for the alleged misuse, reinforcing efforts to safeguard public finances amid economic challenges.
