Money laundering probe: PML-N moves Supreme Court against NAB chief

ISLAMABAD - A leader of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) on Saturday filed a constitutional plea against the head of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) over the money-laundering probe against former prime minister Nawaz Sharif.

Noor Ahmad Awan, a leader of PML-N’s Japan chapter, submitted an application citing a press release issued by the anti-graft watchdog's chairman, Justice (r) Javed Iqbal, ordering probe against Sharif.

On May 8, the NAB chief had ordered to verify the allegations against Sharif after taking notice of the media reports regarding alleged transfer of $4.9 billion to India by the ex-PM and others outside the country.

NAB launches inquiry into allegations against Nawaz Sharif, others of laundering $4.9b to India

The Bureau also quoted the World Bank’s Migration and Remittance Book 2016, saying it corroborates the allegations of money laundering.

The application states that the controversial press release was issued in a move to defame the former prime minister, adding that the State Bank of Pakistan had earlier refuted the allegations.

Justice (r) Javed Iqbal did not issue any explanation regarding the ‘flawed’ probe, it said, adding that the press release raised fingers over the credibility of the institution.

PML-N mulls legal action against NAB chief over money laundering allegations

The applicant pleaded the court to order investigations into the matter, besides directing NAB chief to tender unconditional apology. It also asked the court to issue an order for removing the Iqbal.

On Friday, the embattled PML-N discussed on Friday to initiate legal proceedings against the anti-graft watchdog chairman over not filing apology or resignation despite the deadline.

On Thursday, Nawaz had demanded the NAB chairman to present proof of the charges within 24 hours or go home, however, NAB clarified that it was not a crime to question corrupt practices.

The NAB statement was also quashed by the World Bank, stating that its Remittances and Migration Report did not mention money laundering or name individuals.