FIA Islamabad disciplines dozens of employees for misconduct

The Federal Investigation Agency's Islamabad Zone has completed an internal disciplinary exercise, punishing dozens of employees for violations of departmental rules, misconduct and complaints received from the public.

The two reports filed on the action give different totals. The Associated Press of Pakistan reported that 76 departmental punishments were awarded, including dismissal of 10 employees and demotion of eight others. Minute Mirror reported that action was taken against 75 employees, including nine dismissals, eight demotions and 58 other departmental punishments.

Both accounts agree that the action followed inquiries into public complaints and other official matters, and that the employees concerned were given an opportunity to present their version and were personally heard before the final orders were issued.

According to Minute Mirror, an FIA spokesperson said the disciplinary decisions were taken after a review of the relevant records and available evidence. The spokesperson said no employee was punished without first being able to defend themselves. The report said the Director of the FIA Islamabad Zone also presented certificates of appreciation to three officers for outstanding performance, and that the director said the agency would continue to enforce discipline and accountability, and would not tolerate violation of discipline or corruption.

The disciplinary exercise was carried out under the agency's internal accountability rules, which allow departmental punishment after an inquiry but require that the accused employees be given a hearing. Minute Mirror reported that the FIA spokesperson stressed that the department was focusing not only on accountability but also on encouraging employees who demonstrated good performance, as shown by the certificates awarded to three officers.

The Associated Press of Pakistan described the step as a 'major accountability action', but did not give the names of the employees involved or details of the individual complaints. The FIA has not issued a single consolidated statement reconciling the differing figures reported.