Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has ordered six banks to provide financial relief totaling Rs24.136 million to 31 victims of bank fraud. This directive follows his decision on 31 appeals against the Banking Mohtasib’s rulings.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the President upheld the Banking Mohtasib’s decisions favoring the victims, ensuring justice for the defrauded customers. The victims were deceived by individuals impersonating bank officials, who obtained sensitive banking information via fraudulent phone calls and subsequently withdrew funds from the victims’ accounts.

After the fraudulent activities came to light, the affected customers sought redress from their respective banks, which initially denied relief. Consequently, the victims turned to the Banking Mohtasib, who ruled in their favor. The banks then challenged these rulings by filing separate appeals with the President.

The hearings, conducted at Aiwan-e-Sadr, involved reviewing the petitions and records from both sides before the President delivered his final decisions. The decisions underscore the President’s dedication to delivering justice and prompt relief to the public.

President Zardari also highlighted the essential role of the Banking Mohtasib in protecting citizens from commercial banks’ maladministration and financial fraud. He emphasized that the Mohtasib is crucial for the swift resolution of complaints, providing victims with timely justice without the delays of protracted legal processes.

Furthermore, the President encouraged the public to utilize the Banking Mohtasib’s services to resolve banking disputes and address fraudulent activities effectively.