Sialkot Motors scam explained: how customers were defrauded

ISLAMABAD: Yesterday, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) distributed Rs 186.188 million among 136 claimants affected by the Sialkot Motors scam. The funds, recovered through a plea bargain agreement, mark a crucial step in NAB’s ongoing efforts to provide relief to the victims of financial fraud.

The cheque distribution ceremony was held at NAB Lahore, presided over by NAB Chairman Lt Gen (R) Nazir Ahmed. During the event, the chairman reassured the public that the bureau would continue its tireless efforts to ensure the recovery of public money and hold those responsible for financial crimes accountable.

WHAT WAS THE ACTUAL SCAM?

The Sialkot Motors scam involved the collection of money from customers for vehicles that were never delivered. This resulted in substantial financial harm to hundreds of citizens. The accused diverted the payments for personal gain, resulting in widespread defrauding of customers.

Eventually, the complaints led to NAB stepping in and taking legal action, culminating in the conviction of the accused and the recovery of funds.

As of now, 50 per cent of the total recovered amount has been disbursed to the verified claimants. The remaining 50 per cent will be distributed once all procedural formalities are finalised.

The funds were part of a larger recovery made through the plea bargain mechanism, and the distribution is a direct result of the Accountability Court’s orders, which also imposed a fine of Rs 372.37 million on the convicted individuals.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chairman NAB reiterated the bureau’s commitment to swift, transparent recovery processes. He said that victims of financial crimes would not face delays in receiving justice.

PROPERTY RECOVERY

NAB has also taken steps to secure assets from the accused, including freezing six properties and successfully mutating four properties in the bureau’s favor. Additionally, agricultural land in Pasrur was mutated in April 2025, and rental income from confiscated properties has so far amounted to Rs 15.28 million.

Mirza Faran Baig, DG NAB Lahore, highlighted the bureau’s remarkable performance in 2025, noting that NAB Lahore had successfully resolved 98 per cent of over 6,000 complaints received that year. He commended the bureau’s efficient handling of over 21,000 affectees’ grievances and reaffirmed NAB’s commitment to protecting the public from fraudulent activities.