FBR to launch crackdown against benami accounts next month

E-Paper | April 28, 2026

FBR to launch crackdown against benami accounts next month

Tahir Sherani Dawn.com Published March 28, 2019

A cheque book is seen in this file photo. FBR officials say recommendation of tax amnesty scheme has been sent to prime minister for consideration. — AFP/File

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has decided to launch a crackdown against benami account holders starting from April 1, officials said on Thursday.

FBR's Member Inland Revenue Policy Dr Hamid Ateeq Sarwar and Member Inland Revenue Operations Seema Shakil revealed this during an informal chat with reporters, held to share the progress made by FBR against financial crimes.

The officials said that at least nine people had been arrested in recent weeks in connection with the use of fake invoices. At least 76 properties and 46 vehicles were also confiscated and will be auctioned off, according to the officials.

The FBR officials were of the view that there was significant room for improvement in the Board. They recalled that Prime Minister Imran Khan was neither fully satisfied with FBR's performance nor with the performance of any other institution dealing with finances.

According to Sarwar and Shakil, the FBR has recommended a tax amnesty scheme to the government as per the demand of the business circles in Pakistan.

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Tahir Sherani is an Islamabad-based reporter for Dawn News (TV) with 16 years of experience. His coverage focuses on the national economy, energy, cabinet affairs, the Establishment Division, and the Prime Minister’s Office.

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Dr. Salaria, Aamir Ahmaod

Mar 28, 2019 06:41pm

Too little, too late.

Recommend 0

Mansur Ul Haque

Mar 28, 2019 06:48pm

Amnesty schemes encourage tax evaders ,make hay while the sun shine. It also highlight the fact that FBR is toothless tiger and other institutions lack capability, skill and will to crack down against tax evaders. Tax thieves are enemies of our country. Stop blaming FBR for tax short fall. Devise policy against tax evaders and make massive crack down against enemies of our country.

Recommend 0

M. Saeed

Mar 28, 2019 07:10pm

Nothing positive can be expected to come out of this amateur FBR. PM Imran Khan must make a Naya FBR to be productive.

Recommend 0

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