UAE wants more answers before extraditing former IGP Benazir

Dubai police have sought clarification on several issues before extraditing former inspector general of police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) says the request includes case documents following his arrest in the United Arab Emirates on charges of corruption.

The graftbuster said it was preparing a response and would send the required documents, including records from the illicit wealth case against Benazir, within the next couple of days.

ACC Deputy Director and Public Relations Officer Akhtarul Islam told reporters on Tuesday that, following Benazir’s arrest, the Bangladesh government and the ACC contacted the UAE authorities.

“The investigating officer later sent the required extradition documents through the home ministry. Dubai police recently replied, seeking further clarification on several issues related to the case.

“The investigating officer is now preparing the response and supporting documents,” he said.

The ACC did not disclose the specific issues raised by Dubai police.

However, an official familiar with the matter said Dubai police had, in principle, agreed to hand Benazir over but sought clarification on the legal framework under which the extradition would proceed, as Bangladesh and the UAE do not have a bilateral extradition treaty.

Interpol issued a Red Notice against Benazir on Apr 11, 2025 in connection with a corruption case. UAE authorities confirmed his arrest to Bangladesh by email on Jun 12.

The ACC sent its extradition request in English and Arabic to the home ministry on Jun 16, attaching the arrest warrant, case documents, complaint and other supporting papers.

Akhtarul said the extradition process was being pursued under the UAE’s Federal Law No. 39 of 2006 on international judicial cooperation in criminal matters, which permits extradition requests even without a bilateral treaty, subject to legal conditions.

The graft watchdog has filed six corruption cases against Benazir over allegations including passport forgery and amassing wealth beyond known income. One case is on trial, while the others remain under investigation.

On Dec 15, 2024, the ACC also filed four separate cases against Benazir, his wife Zeeshan Mirza and their two daughters, alleging they concealed information and amassed nearly Tk 740 million in unexplained assets.

Source: https://thefinancialexpress.com.bd/national/uae-wants-more-answers-before-extraditing-former-igp-benazir