Dhaka, Jun 14 (V7N) – Former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed has been arrested in Dubai in connection with corruption cases filed by Bangladesh's Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), according to a statement delivered in Parliament on Sunday.
Speaking under Rule 300 at the beginning of the National Parliament session, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said that Dubai Police arrested the former police chief on June 12 with the assistance of Interpol and that he is currently in custody in the United Arab Emirates.
The minister stated that Bangladeshi authorities have already begun the process of bringing Benazir Ahmed back to the country. According to information received from the National Central Bureau (NCB) in Abu Dhabi, a formal extradition request must be submitted through diplomatic channels within 30 days of the arrest.
Describing the arrest as a "historic success" for Bangladesh Police, Salahuddin Ahmed told lawmakers that the development sends a strong message that no individual, regardless of position or influence, is above the law. He expressed confidence that the extradition process would be completed as quickly as possible.
The arrest follows a lengthy investigation by the Anti-Corruption Commission into allegations of illegal wealth accumulation and concealment of asset information. Courts had earlier approved requests to issue arrest warrants and seek international assistance through Interpol. A Red Notice was subsequently issued against the former police chief.
ACC investigations led to multiple corruption cases against Benazir Ahmed and members of his family, alleging the acquisition of assets beyond known sources of income and the concealment of property information. The former IGP left Bangladesh in 2024 after corruption allegations surfaced and has since faced several legal proceedings.
Officials said Bangladesh Police, the Home Ministry and the Foreign Ministry are now coordinating with UAE authorities to complete the legal procedures required for his return to Bangladesh.
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