Audit Uncovers Missing Vehicles in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Livestock Department
An audit conducted by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Livestock and Dairy Development Department has uncovered a significant discrepancy in the records of official vehicles. The findings reveal that at least 80 vehicles are unaccounted for, raising serious concerns about mismanagement and potential misuse of public assets.
The audit, which covered the financial year 2023-24, identified a major mismatch between the department’s internal records and those maintained by the Excise Department. According to the report, the Livestock Department submitted a list of 97 vehicles, while the Excise Department’s records indicated an additional 80 vehicles registered under the name of the Director General Livestock. These vehicles were neither documented in the department’s files nor found in the field during inspections.
Among the missing vehicles are several models, including 10 Wagon-Rs, 1 Suzuki Bolan, 1 Toyota Gli, 9 Hilux vehicles, and 59 unidentified models. The absence of these assets suggests a lack of proper oversight and control over government property.
The audit report highlights that the missing vehicles may be in the possession of unauthorized individuals due to weak administrative controls. The data reviewed by the Excise Department was up to 2021, indicating that the actual number of missing vehicles could be even higher. Despite repeated attempts by auditors to raise the issue with the department in December 2024, no formal response was received. A meeting of the departmental accounts committee was requested in January 2025, but it had not been held by the time the audit was finalized.
Recommendations and Actions Taken
In response to the findings, the audit has recommended a special investigation to trace the missing vehicles and determine who is responsible for the losses. It also emphasizes the need for strict action to recover the vehicles and prevent further misuse of public resources. Officials believe this case underscores a broader problem of inadequate asset tracking within government departments.
Fazal Hakim, the KP Livestock Minister, confirmed to Geo News that the department has taken steps to address the issue. Recovery letters have been issued, and an inquiry committee has been formed. Led by the Secretary Livestock, the committee is tasked with tracing the missing vehicles and identifying those responsible. The minister assured that disciplinary actions will be taken based on the inquiry’s findings.
Implications for Transparency and Accountability
This discovery has sparked widespread concern about transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. Civil society groups and political figures have called for increased oversight in project execution and asset management. The case may lead to more comprehensive audits in other government departments across the province.
The situation highlights the urgent need for improved governance and stricter enforcement of protocols to ensure that public resources are used appropriately. Without effective measures, such incidents could continue to undermine public trust and hinder development efforts.
As the investigation unfolds, stakeholders are watching closely to see if the necessary actions are taken to restore accountability and prevent future losses. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how government departments manage and track their assets moving forward.