LHC declares Moonis Elahi as ‘fugitive’, orders property seizure

LAHORE: The Accountability Court of Lahore delivered a significant verdict on Friday, officially declaring former federal minister Moonis Elahi an absconder in a corruption case. The court’s written judgment outlined Elahi’s persistent evasion of court appearances and non-cooperation with the prosecution.

The court also highlighted the completion of the 30-day period for advertising the proceedings against Elahi. In response to his continued absence, the court has issued nonbailable arrest warrants against Elahi, ordering his immediate arrest and designating him as an ad litem party. These warrants will remain in effect until his apprehension.

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The court has also demanded a comprehensive report on the freezing of Elahi’s accounts and assets to be presented at the next hearing.

The decision stems from a corruption case filed by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in 2022, accusing Elahi of embezzling billions of rupees funds in various development projects across Punjab.

The FIA, noting Elahi’s failure to appear before the court, had sought his declaration as an absconder, leading to the recent ruling by the Accountability Court of Lahore. – INP