Punjab Probes Over 4,000 Vehicle Transfers Via Fake Biometrics

Punjab Probes Over 4,000 Vehicle Transfers Via Fake Biometrics

BySobia Sultan

The Punjab Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control Department has launched a formal inquiry into more than 4,000 vehicle ownership transfers suspected to have been completed using fraudulent biometric verifications. The investigation targets procedural misconduct and possible financial irregularities involving several officials.

Inquiry Details and Alleged Misconduct

The probe focuses on eleven current officers and staff members accused of facilitating unauthorized vehicle transfers between January and August 2024. Audit checks conducted in two phases — from January 1 to March 7 and from March 8 to August 20 — highlighted significant breaches in established procedures.

Among the key issues are the use of fake biometric data to authorize transactions, along with the employment of counterfeit powers of attorney purportedly issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These forged documents allegedly helped expedite ownership changes without requisite approvals.

Administrative Oversight and Investigation Process

Secretary Excise Masood Mukhtar has designated Director Muhammad Asif (BS-19) to oversee the inquiry under the Punjab Employees Efficiency, Discipline and Accountability Act (PEEDA) of 2006. Excise and Taxation Inspector Ghulam Mohyuddin from Lahore’s Region-C will assist by providing necessary departmental records.

The investigation will also scrutinize violations of the March 7, 2024 operating procedures, which mandate that certain ownership transfers — including those involving Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) — receive Divisional Committee review and approval. Numerous cases reportedly bypassed this step, undermining internal controls.

The appointed inquiry officer has been tasked to complete the review and present a comprehensive report containing recommendations within a 60-day timeframe.

Why This Case Matters for Pakistan

This inquiry sheds light on systemic weaknesses in vehicle registration and ownership transfer mechanisms in Punjab, Pakistan’s most populous province. The alleged misuse of biometric authentication and forged documents raises concerns about the integrity and security of public records management.

For ordinary citizens, such malpractices can lead to ownership disputes, fraud, and legal complications. It also threatens revenue collection and law enforcement efforts related to vehicle taxation and regulation. Strengthening oversight and accountability in these processes is critical for trust and efficiency in public services.

A spokesperson for the Excise Department emphasized that “strict action will be taken against those found responsible,” signaling the government’s intent to uphold transparency and deter future abuses.

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