Lahore: (RightNow) The Lahore High Court has ruled that money laundering investigations can proceed without the final determination of tax liabilities. The court dismissed petitions seeking to quash FIRs related to money laundering.

The court clarified that tax assessment and money laundering investigations are separate legal matters. Tax laws provide a complete procedure for assessment, appeal, and recovery.

The court stated that under the Anti-Money Laundering Act, money laundering is a distinct crime and can be investigated independently of tax assessment.

The decision noted that an illegal source is necessary for money laundering, but a conviction for the underlying crime is not mandatory.

It is important to note that the petitioners argued that criminal proceedings for money laundering without tax assessment violate the constitution. The court rejected their stance and dismissed 19 petitions.