Audit Exposes Lack of Action By Authorities Against Unauthorized Spectrum Usage in Pakistan

A recent report by the Auditor General has revealed inadequate action by the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) against unauthorized usage of spectrum in Pakistan. Despite regulations mandating FAB to investigate and take appropriate action against interference, the board failed to enforce measures against illegal users. The report highlighted 20 cases of unauthorized spectrum usage reported to FAB during the second quarter of 2022, including misuse by prominent telecom operators like Jazz, Telenor, and Zong. However, FAB did not take decisive action, instead forwarding cases to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) for enforcement. Audit findings showed that FAB neglected its regulatory obligations, shifting responsibility to PTA. The report emphasized that FAB has the authority to investigate and take action against interference under the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organization) Act, 1996, and Radio Frequency Spectrum Regulations, 2021. The Auditor General recommended implementing directives from the Departmental Accounts Committee (DAC) meeting held on December 21, 2023, which instructed FAB to verify records with PTA. The report urged fixing responsibility for inaction against illegal spectrum users.