Govt to bring back Benazir Ahmed from UAE soon: Home Minister

The government has initiated steps to bring former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed back to Bangladesh following his arrest in the United Arab Emirates in connection with multiple corruption cases.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed informed Parliament on Sunday that preparations for Benazir‍‍`s extradition are already underway and that the necessary legal and diplomatic procedures are being completed.

According to the minister, Bangladesh was officially notified of the former police chief‍‍`s arrest through a communication sent by Abu Dhabi‍‍`s Federal Criminal Police on June 12. The information was later conveyed to the relevant authorities in Bangladesh.

Salahuddin said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will submit a formal extradition request to the UAE authorities through diplomatic channels, while Bangladesh Police‍‍`s National Central Bureau (NCB) will coordinate the process with officials in Abu Dhabi.

He noted that all required documents, including arrest warrants, case records and investigation-related papers, have already been prepared. The Ministry of Home Affairs has also approved the extradition proposal.

The former police chief is facing several cases under the Penal Code, the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Bangladesh Passport Order, according to the minister.

He added that Bangladeshi law requires a formal extradition request to be submitted within 30 days of an accused person‍‍`s arrest abroad, and authorities are moving forward within that timeframe.

Addressing Parliament, Salahuddin described the arrest as a significant development in the government‍‍`s efforts to ensure accountability and enforce the rule of law.

The minister said the case sends a message that no individual is beyond the reach of the law, regardless of position or influence.

He also revealed that Bangladesh Police had earlier sought assistance from Interpol by requesting a Red Notice against Benazir Ahmed. Following that request, Interpol reportedly coordinated with the UAE Ministry of Interior, which ultimately led to his arrest.

Authorities are now awaiting the completion of diplomatic formalities before proceeding with the extradition process.