ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority has launched a formal inquiry into the alleged illegal sale of amenity spaces in Al-Mustafa Tower, a move that could expose negligence and possible collusion by officials responsible for managing one of Islamabad’s most troubled residential projects.

According to senior CDA sources, the investigation will focus on reports that the building’s gym, open areas and other common facilities were sold by the former allottee and builder, depriving more than 320 families of recreational and community spaces promised to residents. The inquiry committee is expected to begin work next week after receiving formal approval from the competent authority.

The controversy stems from a 2019 order of the Islamabad High Court, which directed the CDA to take over the project after the lease of the plot was cancelled over non-payment of premium. The court ruled that the property had vested in the CDA and that any sale or transfer of units would be regulated by the authority.

Following the court order, the CDA had formed a management committee to oversee day-to-day affairs of the tower. However, officials admitted that the committee later became inactive without any formal order, creating a vacuum that allegedly allowed the unauthorized disposal of public amenity spaces.

Taking notice of the complaints, CDA Member Estate has ordered the authority to retake administrative control of the building and reactivate the management committee. Security staff will also be deployed to assist the committee in enforcing the takeover and protecting residents’ interests.

The case marks the latest in a broader accountability drive within the CDA. Officials say that after the high-profile One Constitution Avenue controversy, the authority is preparing to investigate other major real estate projects where public assets may have been unlawfully transferred, signaling a tougher stance against influential developers and any officials found complicit.