Punjab’s anti-corruption establishment arrested a primary schoolteacher this weekend on suspicion of accepting a bribe related to a gardener (Maali) job in Bhakkar. Sources close to the Anti-Corruption Establishment, Punjab (ACE), revealed that resident Rafiullah of Bhakkar had filed a complaint against Muhammad Aslam. According to Rafiullah, Aslam allegedly received Rs150, 000 for facilitating recruitment into the gardener role.
The Regional Director of ACE in Sargodha Region heard the complaint and investigated the matter thoroughly before taking action. The arrest highlights ongoing efforts by Pakistan’s anti-graft agencies to dismantle corruption within local government services, particularly those affecting education and basic civic amenities like gardening.
This incident underscores the pervasive issue of bribery that exists even at the grassroots level. Authorities in Punjab have recently cracked down on several such cases across different sectors including healthcare, education, and public works. Aslam’s arrest underlines the need for continued vigilance against corrupt practices aimed at securing employment or favoritism through illicit means.
Local residents remain vigilant as corruption remains a persistent issue despite recent stringent measures. Authorities are exploring further steps to educate the public about the consequences of such unethical practices while strengthening anti-corruption enforcement mechanisms across all levels of government.