Interpol help sought to locate Benazir
Bangladesh Police have sought Interpol’s assistance to determine the whereabouts of former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed.
On Wednesday, the National Central Bureau (NCB) of the Police Headquarters sent an email to the international policing organisation requesting information on his current location.
The NCB took this step after media reports emerged suggesting that Benazir Ahmed had travelled to the Caribbean island nation of Saint Lucia after being released from custody in Dubai.
Additional Inspector General of Police (Crime and Operations) Khondaker Rafiqul Islam said: “An email was sent on Wednesday to Interpol asking for information on the whereabouts of former IGP Benazir.
We also need to verify the accuracy of what has been reported in the media.”
According to media reports, Benazir Ahmed travelled from Dubai to Saint Lucia on August 17 following his release. The reports also claim he holds a Saint Lucian passport, has joint investments there, and owns a flat in the Gros Islet area of the country.
Citing sources, the reports further state that a Dubai court granted Benazir bail on July 27, and he was formally released on July 30 after legal proceedings were completed. Prior to that, hearings were held in the Dubai court on extradition documents and legal proceedings submitted by the Bangladesh government, after which the court granted him conditional bail.
Sources also claim that several Awami League leaders based in Europe lobbied through various channels in Dubai to secure his bail. After news of his bail and release reached Bangladesh, the Home Ministry moved quickly – immediately contacting Dubai Police, though sources say no positive response was received.
According to sources, after securing bail, Benazir sought to move from Dubai to a relatively safer country. He considered several destinations including Spain, but ultimately chose Saint Lucia based on convenience, available facilities, and security considerations.
Bangladesh Police have now written to Interpol to confirm his location, and his current whereabouts are expected to be clarified based on information received from the organisation. Benazir Ahmed is a defendant in cases involving crimes against humanity.
