KARACHI: A major investigation has been initiated into allegations of large-scale corruption at Civil Hospital Hyderabad, covering the period from 2023 to 2025. The Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) Sindh has issued formal directives for the hospital administration to submit complete procurement and financial records for audit and review.
According to the ACE notice, the inquiry has been approved under ACE laws and Allied rules of 1991–1993. The complaint alleges that government funds allocated for medicines and medical equipment were embezzled through the purchase of substandard items supplied in collusion with pharmaceutical companies on a commission basis, while a portion of the stock was allegedly sold in the open market. The Medical Superintendent, the accountant, and the storekeeper of the hospital have been named in the record for alleged misuse of funds under Central Rate Contracts during the last three financial years.
The inquiry was triggered by detailed disclosures made by former administrator Abdul Sattar Jatoi, who submitted documentary evidence and a video statement alleging corruption of more than Rs. 3 billion. His claims also mention several officials, including Dr. Aftab Phul, Vice Chancellor of LUMHS Dr. Ikram Aijaz, and Dr. Shahid Jonejo. The evidence reportedly includes files related to the misappropriation of funds and procurement of medicines and other hospital equipment valued at Rs. 30 crore.
Sources indicate that after the initiation of the probe, fear and anxiety have spread among officials who held key administrative positions over the past two years. During this period, hospital services reportedly deteriorated, and patients struggled to receive proper medication and food. The ACE has south all relevant records for audit, including procurement files, work orders, quotations, stock registers, NITs published in newspapers, lists of contractors, and audit reports.
Officials say the scope of the investigation is expected to expand further, and more names may surface as evidence is examined and records are scrutinized. The Anti-Corruption Establishment has emphasized the need for full cooperation to finalize the enquiry in accordance with ACE laws.
