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The Bangladesh government is continuing efforts to bring former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed back from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to face legal proceedings, even after he was released from custody on conditional bail by a Dubai court.
Speaking to reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday, Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir said he was not yet fully informed about the reports of Benazir’s release.
“I have just come from several meetings, so I am not fully aware of the matter. It would not be appropriate for me to comment until I receive an update from the Ministry of Home Affairs,” he said when asked whether the ministry had any information about the Dubai court’s decision.
Benazir Ahmed was granted conditional bail by a UAE court on July 27 after being arrested in Dubai. He was released from prison on July 30 after completing the required legal formalities.
Meanwhile, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed said Bangladesh remains committed to securing the former police chief’s return.
Speaking to journalists at a hotel in Dhaka, she said Bangladesh is maintaining close communication with the UAE authorities and has already provided the documents and information requested by the Emirati government.
According to the state minister, the UAE is handling the matter under its own legal framework while Bangladesh’s Ministry of Home Affairs continues discussions with the Emirati authorities. The exchange of information and legal procedures is still underway.
Shama Obaed expressed optimism that Benazir Ahmed would be brought back to Bangladesh after the completion of the necessary legal and diplomatic processes.
She said the government expects the former IGP to be returned to Dhaka soon so that he can face trial under Bangladesh’s existing laws. She added that further steps would be decided in consultation with the Ministry of Home Affairs and other relevant agencies.
