Special Audit Ordered Across Punjab
Punjab’s police authorities have announced a province-wide special audit of all licensing centers after a corruption scandal emerged at the Liberty Service Center in Lahore. The decision comes amid growing concerns about malpractice, bribery, and illegal activities reportedly taking place at multiple centers.
Recent reports also highlight financial irregularities uncovered in Punjab during the Buzdar-era, totaling over Rs200 million (read more), showing a long-standing pattern of systemic corruption.
The Inspector General of Inspection has issued directives to officers in all districts, instructing them to carry out the audit under the supervision of senior officers of Superintendent of Police (SP) rank. The initiative aims to ensure transparency, accountability, and the restoration of public trust in licensing services.
Comprehensive 20-Point Audit Framework
The special audit will follow a detailed 20-point framework. Key areas of scrutiny include:
Complaints of corruption and bribery
Activities of agent networks allegedly manipulating the system
Collection of extra fees beyond official charges
Verification of driving license written tests (sign tests) and practical road tests, including video recordings
Review of 30 days of recorded footage from each center
Inspection officers have been instructed to carefully examine all evidence, including CCTV footage, registrars, and other relevant documents.
Deadline and Oversight
The audit task has been assigned to teams within the District Police Officer (DPO) offices and police lines. Authorities have emphasized that the audit report, containing detailed observations and recommendations, must be submitted by November 25.
Officials hope that this special audit will not only identify wrongdoing but also strengthen accountability mechanisms across the province’s licensing infrastructure. Public confidence in these centers, long criticized for bureaucratic inefficiency and corruption, is expected to benefit if the review is conducted transparently.
