Pak army chief dismisses 12 corrupt officers

In an unexpected and sudden move, Pakistan's army chief, General Raheel Sharif, dismissed 12 officers on charges of corruption today.

Five brigadiers, three colonels and a major general are among those dismissed, the Dawn reported.

However, an official confirmation is yet to be announced.

The development comes two days after General Sharif had said "across the board accountability is necessary for the solidarity, integrity and prosperity of Pakistan", adding that the war against terror cannot be won unless "the menace of corruption is uprooted".

General Sharif said 'Pakistan's Armed Forces will fully support every meaningful effort in that direction which would ensure a better future for our next generations.'

The army chief's call for across-the-board accountability comes after Prime Minister Sharif and his family was named in the explosive Panama Papers for possessing undeclared offshore assets.

Opposition leaders have demanded a probe into the scandal, with some calling for the Prime Minister to step down.

Prime Minister Sharif has rejected any allegations of money laundering, claiming that his children have legitimate businesses abroad, and has called for the establishment of an inquiry commission.