IHC orders FIA to return seized jewelry within one month

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to return seized jewelry to a woman within one month, observing that there is no justification for retaining the items after the completion of an inquiry

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 16th Apr, 2026) The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to return seized jewelry to a woman within one month, observing that there is no justification for retaining the items after the completion of an inquiry.

A single bench comprising Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir heard a petition filed by a citizen, Shahnaz Ashraf, regarding the alleged misuse of her jewelry by an FIA officer.

During the proceedings, the petitioner along with her counsel and FIA officials appeared before the court. Justice Tahir inquired from the FIA officials about the current status of the case.

The FIA officials informed the court that the inquiry had been completed and was now awaiting approval from the Director General.

At this, Justice Tahir remarked that if the inquiry has been completed, what is the justification for still holding onto the items.

The court subsequently ordered the FIA to return the seized jewelry to the petitioner within one month. The bench adjourned the hearing of the case with these directives. The court made it clear that the retention of case property post-inquiry is not permissible under the law.