PkRevenue.com – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has uncovered a massive sales tax fraud amounting to approximately Rs 22 billion. A statement released on Tuesday revealed that the Directorate General of Intelligence and Investigation-Inland Revenue in Hyderabad and Karachi has dismantled a network of tax fraudsters responsible for inflicting significant financial losses on the National Exchequer.
The comprehensive investigation led by the intelligence officers in both cities resulted in the registration of FIRs against M/s Rehman Enterprises and M/s ZA Impex. These companies were implicated in tax frauds amounting to Rs 10 billion and Rs 12 billion, respectively, under the provisions of the Sales Tax Act, 1990.
The probe by FBR intelligence officers unveiled the organized involvement of groups in creating fake companies and issuing counterfeit sales tax invoices. The fraudulent activities were further validated by the Financial Monitoring Unit through detailed Financial Intelligence reports (FIs).
In an attempt to obstruct the investigation and exert influence over the proceedings, the accused filed numerous complaints against the officers of the Directorate General of Intelligence and Investigation-IR across various platforms. Notably, a private complaint was recently lodged in the court of Special Judge Central-I, Lahore, making baseless allegations against the DG Intelligence and Investigation-IR and other officers. However, this complaint was suspended by the Lahore High Court on June 3, 2024.
The FBR and its field formations remain resolute in their mission to identify, apprehend, and prosecute individuals involved in tax-related fraudulent activities. By holding these fraudsters accountable, the FBR aims to safeguard billions of rupees in revenue and foster a fair and equitable environment for genuine taxpayers.
This successful crackdown underscores the FBR’s commitment to combating tax crimes and ensuring the integrity of the tax system. By dismantling such fraudulent networks, the FBR is reinforcing its dedication to maintaining transparency and accountability within the financial system, ultimately contributing to the nation’s economic stability.
