In a major move against entrenched corruption networks, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has escalated the high-profile Kohistan corruption case to the status of a formal investigation. As part of this broader effort, NAB has managed to recover and freeze assets totaling an estimated Rs25 billion.

The operation began with the arrest of Muhammad Ayub, a prominent contractor linked to multiple suspicious financial transactions. His interrogation yielded leads implicating several powerful individuals, setting the stage for a sweeping crackdown.

Among the key recoveries was over Rs1 billion in cash, including foreign currency and 3 kilograms of gold, found in premises tied to Ayub and his associates. NAB also took swift action to freeze 73 bank accounts, unlocking Rs5 billion in recovered funds.

Luxury vehicles were not spared—77 premium cars valued at Rs940 million were seized, believed to have been purchased through laundered money.

The investigation also uncovered a vast portfolio of real estate. NAB’s team seized dozens of properties, including 30 houses, 25 flats, 12 plazas, 12 retail shops, 4 farmhouses, and multiple penthouses. In addition, 175 kanals of agricultural land were recovered, mostly located in prime areas across Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Abbottabad, and Mansehra.

This action represents one of the largest financial asset freezes in recent NAB history and may serve as a deterrent to future abuse of public wealth.