Published: 12:04 AM, 03 August 2026
Benazir Ahmed released on bail in UAE: Reports
Dhaka to challenge Emirates court move
A United Arab Emirates (UAE) court granted bail to Bangladesh's former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed on July 27, and he was released on July 30 after completing legal formalities. His passport remains with the court and he cannot leave the UAE without permission, according to media reports.
The former police chief faces multiple investigations and six corruption cases over alleged illicit wealth, money laundering and passport fraud. One case is under trial and the others remain under investigation.
An Interpol Red Notice was issued against him on Apr 11, 2025, following which Dubai police arrested him. Bangladesh subsequently sent an extradition request. Dubai police later sought further information and clarification, even as the bail has cast fresh uncertainty over his return.
However, Bangladesh has hired a Dubai law firm to challenge the conditional bail granted to former IGP Benazir Ahmed, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has said.
After a meeting with Rajshahi police on Sunday, he said the government is trying to obtain a certified copy of the bail order.
Benazir, who was arrested in Dubai at Bangladesh's request, was granted conditional bail amid reports that he was seeking to travel to Europe.
"We have spoken to Bangladesh's ambassador in Dubai. We hope to bring him back quickly through legal proceedings. The law firm appointed from Bangladesh is working on this," Salahuddin said.
Prime Minister's Foreign Affairs Adviser Humaiun Kobir yesterday said the government is initiating the process of bringing back Benazir Ahmed from the United Arab Emirates.
The home ministry has started the necessary process and discussions are ongoing, he told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in response to a question over media reports that Benazir has been released on bail in the UAE.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Sunday said the government is in touch with the government of the United Arab Emirates and expressed hope that former Inspector General of Police Benazir Ahmed would be brought back to Bangladesh soon.
"Communication between the two sides is underway and the required documents have been exchanged. They (the UAE) wanted some specific information which was provided accordingly," she told reporters after attending a program in the city.
The State Minister said the UAE is taking steps in accordance with its laws, and the Bangladesh government will take the next step through due process.
