President tasks team with probing ventilators’ theft

KABUL, the Presidential Palace said Wednesday.

According to Pajhwok Afghan News report, 32 ventilators donated to Afghanistan were smuggled to neighbouring Pakistan at a time when coronavirus patients are dying for lack of oxygen in hospitals.

The report sparked huge noise in the social media and the Wolesi Jirga also debated the issue today (Wednesday).

On Tuesday, Mesharano Jirga discussed the issue and demanded individuals involved in the smuggling of ventilators to be exposed.

Addressing the High Economic Council meeting, the president welcomed media report aimed at transparency and preventing corruption.

The team is tasked with further explaining the smuggling of 32 ventilators and presenting a transparent report to the people of Afghanistan.

The powerful committee is headed by Administrative Affairs director and its members include officials from the High Audit Office and Attorney General, the statement said.

The committee has been directed to strictly investigate the theft with the Media Corporation Commission, taking into account the evidence and seriousness of the matter.

According to the statement, Acting Health Minister Mohammad Jawad Usmani provided his report to the High Economic Council ventilators.

Usmani pledged to provide information regarding medical equipment donated to Afghanistan.

Nh/ma