Audit Uncovers Over Rs1.06 Billion in Alleged Payroll Irregularities at HESCO

An audit has uncovered alleged financial irregularities exceeding Rs1.06 billion in salaries and allowances at the Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO), with ghost employees and double salary payments cited as major causes of losses to the national exchequer. According to audit officials, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) is investigating alleged corruption worth Rs996.2 million, while HESCO’s internal inquiry identified an additional Rs67.8 million in suspected payments.

FIA officials informed the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that five FIRs had been registered in connection with the case. They said 151 individuals had been nominated, 14 suspects had been arrested, while the remaining accused had obtained bail. The agency also reported recovering Rs130 million so far. However, PAC member Qasim Noon said the recovered amount was insignificant compared to the total alleged embezzlement and called for stricter action against those responsible.

During the committee meeting, MNA Syed Amin Ul Haque said the alleged ghost employees had been physically verified, while Senator Afnan Ullah urged the Power Division to intervene and fix responsibility. PAC Chairperson Shaista Akhtar observed that the audit objection would remain pending until the court’s decision, while committee members questioned why HESCO had not implemented a biometric attendance system. PPP lawmaker Shazia Marri criticized the company’s performance and stressed that DISCO officials were summoned for accountability rather than explanations. The committee directed that the reported recovery of Rs130 million be verified through an audit, while the remaining recovery process will continue to be monitored.