Crackdown begins on corrupt SBCA officers in Karachi after Lyari tragedy
New SBCA DG orders officers to show all their assets in 15 days: Directs officers to ensure daily attendance and strict punctuality
The newly appointed Director General of the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), Shah Mir Khan Bhutto, has taken decisive action against officers suspected of backing illegal construction in Karachi.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, in his first major move, the new director general has directed all SBCA officers to submit complete records of their assets from the past five years within 15 days.
This bold order has sent shockwaves across the department. Shah Mir Bhutto made it clear that no officer will be allowed to hide property or assets, emphasising transparency and accountability within the SBCA.
Shah Mir Bhutto stated that all officers must submit details of movable and immovable assets accumulated over the last five years directly to the office.
In addition, the new DG has also instructed strict punctuality, ordering officers and staff to report to the office on time and ensure their attendance is properly recorded.
The announcement has stirred panic among SBCA officials, especially those accused of corruption.
Insiders said that the new director general has struck a nerve by targeting the financial secrecy of allegedly bribe-taking officers.
The shake-up follows a tragic residential building collapse in Lyari, which drew widespread criticism of SBCA's role in failing to regulate construction standards.
In response, the Sindh government suspended former DG Muhammad Ishaq Khuhro on July 7 and appointed Shah Mir Khan Bhutto in his place.
Prior to this appointment, Shah Mir Khan Bhutto served as Special Secretary in the Chief Minister’s Implementation and Inspection Team.
His arrival signals a new phase of reform and oversight in the long-criticised building control authority.
Muhammad Ishaq Khuhro, now declared an Officer on Special Duty (OSD), has been ordered to report to the Services, General Administration, and Coordination Department (S&GAD). Despite the suspension, he will continue receiving his salary.
Reporter: Miraj Akhtar