Gardiwal orders dismissal of corrupt officials

JALALABAD: (PAN): The acting governor on Wednesday asked the Public Works Department to sack with immediate effect the customs officials involved in corrupt practices at the Torkham dry port in eastern Nangarhar province.

Mohammad Hanif Gardiwal issued the directives during a visit to the border town. He was accompanied by high-ranking military and civil officials.

After visiting various parts of the port and inspecting customs activities, the acting governor acknowledged not only customs employees and border police, but almost every department’s staff were involved in corruption.

A truck driver told Gardiwal customs officials took illegal money from them on various pretexts on a daily basis.

Talking to media, Gardiwal said large-scale corruption at customs offices was no more a secret, directing the provincial Public Works Department head to immediately fire officials involved in bribery and other corrupt practices.

Wali Jan, an official at the dry port, said strict measures had been in place to curb corruption since Eidul Adha.

The acting governor observed border police received illegal money from truckers and passenger vehicles in return for allowing them to proceed. He promised more steps for controlling corrupt activities at the vital border crossing.

A businessman told Pajhwok Afghan News they could not afford bribing officials of every department performing duty at the border.

Traders and civil society members say they are ready to assist the government in dealing with corrupt practices by keeping a close eye on those involved.

ma

Visits: 2