ISLAMABAD: Irregularities have surfaced in the operation of the Diplomatic Shuttle Service in the highly sensitive Red Zone of the federal capital. Reports allege that the service was being run under the supervision of a CDA driver and that private security guards were deployed at the facility, surprising even officials of the Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA).
Inspection and Immediate Actions
Following complaints regarding irregularities in the shuttle service, DMA Director Syeda Anam Fatima visited the shuttle service area and ordered action against those involved. During the inspection, one individual was arrested on charges of overcharging passengers and was shifted to the Secretariat Police Station.
Private Security Guards Removed
According to sources, the visit also revealed that private security guards were deployed at the Diplomatic Shuttle Service despite the facility now being operated by the Capital Development Authority (CDA). The DMA director ordered the removal of the private guards and directed that police personnel be deployed instead.
Suspension of Supervisor
In addition, acting shuttle service supervisor Aijaz Qureshi was suspended over alleged irregularities. Sources said that Qureshi, who is officially employed as a driver in the DMA, had been performing supervisory duties at the sensitive shuttle service facility.
Long-standing Issues
Sources further claimed that the private guards had been stationed at the shuttle service area for several years and continued to remain there even after the service came under official government management. Complaints have also been lodged against some of these guards, alleging their involvement in sending people to embassies without appointments in exchange for money.
UAE Embassy Incident
A few months ago, the UAE Embassy reportedly raised concerns after dozens of individuals allegedly reached the embassy on the same day without valid appointments after paying intermediaries. Embassy officials reportedly refused to entertain the visitors upon discovering that they lacked appointments. The incident allegedly triggered protests outside the shuttle service area by affected individuals, prompting police intervention to disperse the crowd.
Lack of Action
Sources said that allegations of corruption and irregularities in the Diplomatic Shuttle Service had previously been reported to senior authorities by various institutions, but no effective action was taken. They claimed that those involved were too influential to be restrained.
