The Anti-Corruption team in Sahiwal has arrested Adnan Hussain, a local Patwari, for allegedly accepting a bribe of PKR 20,000. The arrest was carried out during a trap operation conducted under the supervision of a magistrate. Marked currency notes used in the bribery were recovered from the accused at the scene.
The operation was led by Circle Officer Arshad Zaman Watto under the guidance of the Regional Director of Anti-Corruption, Sahiwal, Basharat Nabi. According to officials, the accused demanded the bribe from Muhammad Farooq, a resident, in exchange for recording the transfer of inherited property. The complaint by Muhammad Farooq prompted the swift investigation that led to the successful trap.
Following the arrest, a formal case has been registered at the Anti-Corruption Sahiwal police station, and further investigation is underway to determine whether the act was part of a larger pattern of misconduct or an isolated incident. Authorities have assured the public that strict legal action will be taken against individuals found guilty of abusing their positions in public service.
Patwaris, who are responsible for maintaining land records and facilitating property transactions, have historically been vulnerable to allegations of corruption, particularly in rural areas. Anti-Corruption officials noted that trap operations are part of ongoing efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in local governance.
The Sahiwal Anti-Corruption Region has urged citizens to report any instances of bribery or malpractice and emphasised that proactive reporting, combined with targeted operations, is key to curbing corruption at the grassroots level. This operation follows a series of similar actions across Punjab in recent months, reflecting the provincial Anti-Corruption Department’s renewed focus on integrity in land administration and other local government functions.
Spokesperson, Anti-Corruption Sahiwal Region