Junior Foreign Affairs minister optimistic about bringing back Benazir

Former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed, who was arrested in Dubai, has been released on conditional bail. However, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam is optimistic about bringing back the accused Benazir.

The State Minister shared this with journalists today, Sunday (August 2), regarding the Benazir issue after an event at the Sonargaon Hotel in the capital.

The State Minister for Foreign Affairs views the granting of bail to former IGP Benazir Ahmed in the United Arab Emirates as part of that country's legal process. She also mentioned that communication with the UAE government regarding Benazir's repatriation is ongoing.

Shama Obaed further stated that the UAE had requested some information regarding Benazir, which has been provided. She expressed hope that the accused Benazir Ahmed will be brought back to Bangladesh very soon and face trial.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is investigating this controversial police officer from the Awami League government's tenure on multiple charges, including illegal wealth acquisition and money laundering. Following that investigation, an Interpol Red Notice was issued against him on April 11, 2025. Subsequently, Dubai Police arrested Benazir based on that notice. The UAE authorities informed the Bangladesh government of the matter via email on June 12.

Later, on June 14, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said that a formal extradition request must be sent through diplomatic channels within 30 days of the arrest. Accordingly, the Bangladesh government prepared the necessary documents and sent the request. About a month later, Dubai Police sent a letter to Bangladesh, expressing in-principle consent for Benazir's extradition while requesting further information and legal clarifications. Amid this exchange of documents, news of Benazir's release on bail was published in several local media outlets.