Lahore: Authorities have launched a money laundering investigation against Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) chief Saad Rizvi after a large cache of foreign currency and gold was reportedly recovered during a raid at his Lahore residence.
According to police officials, the operation was jointly carried out by Punjab Police, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). The recovered items include over Rs110 million in cash, nearly 2 kilograms of gold, and other valuable assets, all of which have been seized for further examination.
Sources said the raid took place following a province-wide crackdown against TLP’s protest march over the weekend. During the operation, law enforcement teams were surprised to discover substantial foreign currency and precious metals at the TLP leader’s residence. Officials noted that prior to founding TLP, Saad Rizvi did not have any major business ventures.
Authorities have now expanded the scope of their investigation to include bank accounts and property records of Rizvi and his family to determine the sources of their assets.
The police inventory lists 1.92 kilograms of gold, 898 grams of silver, 69 branded wristwatches, and various pieces of jewelry. Foreign currencies recovered reportedly included Indian rupees, euros, Saudi riyals, and British pounds.
Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies have registered 22 criminal cases across Punjab against Saad Rizvi and his associates on charges ranging from violence to incitement. One major FIR filed in Muridke names over 300 individuals, accusing them of attacking police and damaging public property.
Police allege that some TLP supporters assaulted officers with batons and metal rods, while others opened fire during clashes. Several policemen were injured, and investigations are ongoing.
Separately, religious scholar Mufti Muneeb-ur-Rehman called for the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the recent crackdown and ensure transparency and accountability. He urged the government to release the bodies of deceased workers to their families and halt raids on homes.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) also expressed concern over the excessive use of force, emphasizing that state institutions must act lawfully and proportionately, even while dealing with violent demonstrations.
