The Central Intelligence Cell (CIC) of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) has uncovered evidence of tax evasion during a raid at Savanna Eco Resort and Natural Park, owned by former IGP Benazir Ahmed.
The investigation team said that the information about the tax evasion would be shared with the tax authorities.
On Tuesday at 11:50am, a 15-member team led by Shah Mohammad Fazle Elahi, deputy director of the CIC, arrived at the Savanna Eco Resort and Natural Park.
The team reviewed computers and files from various offices within the park to collect data.
During the investigation, the team confirmed instances of tax evasion.
Shah Mohammad Fazle Elahi said that the exact amount of evaded tax could not yet be determined as further information from various departments is required.
However, he confirmed significant evidence of tax evasion and hinted at a large-scale discrepancy.
After the investigation, Fazle Elahi informed the media: “We conducted the investigation based on specific allegations of tax evasion against Savanna Eco Resort and Natural Park, owned by former IGP Benazir Ahmed. Through our inquiry, we identified clear evidence of tax evasion. Once we obtain detailed valuation information, we will be able to determine the exact amount. The documents we have so far indicate a substantial amount of tax evasion. However, we need additional information from some departments to finalize the figures. Until we receive valuation reports from all relevant departments, providing an exact figure is challenging. But the amount seems significant."
He further said: "We need to verify all assets, disclosed and undisclosed, to confirm the evasion. If we find violations under the income tax law, we will prepare a report and notify the relevant tax office. The tax office will then take necessary action, and we may proceed with legal measures if directed by higher authorities."
Benazir Ahmed, who served as the director general of RAB from 2015 to 2020 and as inspector general of police (IGP) from 2020 to 2022, developed the Savanna Eco Resort and Natural Park on 621 bighas of land in Bairagitola village, Gopalganj.
Including the resort and other facilities, Benazir allegedly holds control over 1,400 bighas of land in the area.
Allegations have surfaced that he seized land from the Hindu community to establish the park.
In June last year, the park was seized by the local administration under a court order.
Currently, the resort is being managed by a court-appointed receiver.