A staggering case of wheat theft has emerged in Sindh, where approximately 47,000 bags of wheat worth Rs. 800 million have disappeared from various warehouses overseen by the Sindh Food Department in Khairpur district.
Following an initial investigation, authorities suspended at least three government officials, including the district’s food controller and supervisors.
The discrepancy in wheat stocks was discovered during a physical audit conducted by Food Department officers.
It was discovered that a large amount of wheat, stored in gunny bags, was unaccounted for across various storage facilities in Khairpur district.
The discrepancy in wheat stocks was discovered during a physical audit conducted by Food Department officers.
It was discovered that a large amount of wheat, stored in gunny bags, was unaccounted for across various storage facilities in Khairpur district.
Officials from the District Food Department confirmed the theft, claiming that the missing wheat bags were stolen from warehouses in Khairpur, Sitharja, Gumbat, Thari Mir Wah, Choundko, Sikandarabad, and other district locations. The total value of stolen wheat bags is estimated to be around Rs800 million.
The disappearance of such a large amount of wheat has far-reaching consequences, not only in terms of financial loss, but also for food security and public trust in governmental institutions.
The incident reveals vulnerabilities in the food supply chain and emphasises the critical need for comprehensive reforms to strengthen storage facilities, improve oversight mechanisms, and ensure accountability
As authorities continue to investigate the incident, it is critical to prioritise corrective actions and reforms aimed at improving the food supply chain’s integrity and restoring public trust in government institutions.
To read our blog on “To buy 110,000 metric tons of wheat, TCP issues a tender,” click here
