ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of National Food Security and Research (MNFS&R) has initiated a formal inquiry into allegations of fraudulent practices within the Department of Plant Protection (DPP). The investigation follows complaints regarding the compliance audit for the re-accreditation of M/s Al-Abbas Agro Care, a fumigation company based in Karachi. A three-member committee has been established to investigate these irregularities and submit a report within 10 days.
The committee, led by Mr. Rehan Ali Cheema, Deputy Secretary Admin-II, includes two technical officers (entomologists), Mr. Abraiz Ali and Mr. Azaz Ahmed from the DPP. The investigation was prompted by serious allegations that the audit process had been manipulated, specifically regarding physical and technical infrastructure, fumigation equipment, fumigants, and the accreditation records of treatment operators hired by M/s Al-Abbas Agro Care. The audit committee, which included Mr. Akhlaque Hussain, Deputy Director Quarantine/Incharge DPP Seaport office, and Dr. Saqi Kausar, Entomologist from the quarantine section, is accused of overlooking key deficiencies while recommending re-accreditation.
Background: The scandal first came to light when complaints were filed by concerned citizens, Mr. Abdul Manan and Mr. Afsar Ehtisham. They alleged that the re-accreditation of M/s Al-Abbas Agro Care was based on falsified documents, reportedly orchestrated by a London-based clearing agent, Mr. Israr Khan. Khan is accused of manipulating DPP officials, including Mr. Allah Yar, Rashid Siraj, Umer Farooq, and others, by using his connections with senior officials in DPP, MNFS&R, and even the Prime Minister’s office to promote his business interests.
Further allegations claim that Mr. Khan frequently files false complaints against DPP officers who do not cater to his business interests. His company’s import permit for methyl bromide from a Chinese manufacturer was canceled by DPP after it was discovered that the manufacturer’s documents were falsified. Additionally, his fumigation company, M/s Ahmad and Kamran Traders, Quetta, had its registration canceled for violating fumigation regulations, which reportedly fueled Khan’s retaliatory complaints against the responsible officers.
It has also been alleged that Mr. Muhammad Umer Rathore, a recently inducted entomologist at DPP, has been complicit in accepting fraudulent accreditation documents and pressuring colleagues to issue a re-accreditation certificate for M/s Al-Abbas Agro Care. Mr. Rathore is believed to be acting on behalf of Dr. Muhammad Qasim Khan Kakar, Director Admin (on deputation), who allegedly has close ties to Israr Khan. Dr. Kakar’s appointment at DPP from the Balochistan Agriculture Research Institute (ARI) reportedly violates Rule 20 A of the Pakistan Civil Servants (Appointment, Promotion & Transfer) Rules, 1973, as he lacks the requisite qualifications and experience for the position of Director Admin.
These accusations have raised serious concerns about corruption and accountability within DPP, particularly as Pakistan’s agricultural exports are at risk. Calls for an independent audit of Al-Abbas Agro Care and other implicated companies are growing.
The inquiry committee is expected to complete its investigation and submit its findings to MNFS&R within the next 10 days, emphasizing the need for transparency and swift corrective action. Agency Report
