ISLAMABAD: A major land controversy has erupted in the federal capital after the Capital Development Authority halted the transfer and allotment of dozens of plots in Sector D-13 over an alleged scam worth more than Rs1 billion, triggering a high level probe and raising fresh concerns about land governance.

Officials confirmed that transfers of 22 already allotted plots have been suspended, along with the processing of nearly 60 additional plots suspected to be linked to fraudulent claims under altered identities. The move came after irregularities surfaced during an internal review by the authority’s new management.

According to sources, the case revolves around a landowner who was entitled to plots against acquired land but allegedly manipulated official records by changing identities. The plots were reportedly allotted without comprehensive verification and later sold in the open market, prompting suspicion within the land directorate.

The matter gained urgency after further scrutiny revealed that similar cases involving dozens of additional plots were in progress. Senior officials intervened to halt all ongoing proceedings, preventing what authorities believe could have expanded into a much larger financial scandal.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who was briefed on the developments during a high level meeting, directed the Federal Investigation Agency to complete its investigation on a priority basis. He praised the CDA leadership for uncovering the issue and made it clear that those involved would face strict accountability.

The controversy has also accelerated calls for systemic reform, with directives issued to digitise land records within a fixed timeline and tighten oversight mechanisms. As Islamabad moves forward with major development projects, the exposure of the alleged scam has placed renewed focus on transparency, enforcement and restoring public trust in urban land management.