By H M GOLAM KIBRIYA RAKIB

Bangladesh Congress has expressed gratitude to Interpol over the reported arrest of former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed and urged the government to take immediate steps to ensure his return to Bangladesh for trial.

In a statement, Bangladesh Congress Secretary General Advocate Md. Iyarul Islam said that individuals accused of serious offences, including corruption, money laundering, murder and human rights violations, often flee abroad and remain beyond the reach of domestic law enforcement agencies. Although international cooperation has made it possible to locate and arrest such fugitives, bringing them back to Bangladesh has remained a significant challenge.

He noted that, according to information previously published by government and police sources, only 17 fugitive Bangladeshi suspects were repatriated between 2005 and 2022 through Interpol Red Notices and international police cooperation. He described the figure as disappointing and reflective of Bangladesh`s limitations in combating transnational crime.

Advocate Iyarul Islam stated that, in many instances, Bangladeshi fugitives arrested overseas could not be returned due to legal, diplomatic and administrative complications. As a result, judicial proceedings were delayed and victims were deprived of justice.

Referring to former IGP Benazir Ahmed as a highly discussed public figure facing multiple allegations, he said the allegations against him have drawn widespread public attention. Therefore, following his reported arrest, it is essential to bring him back to Bangladesh without delay and ensure that due legal process takes its course. Otherwise, prolonged procedures similar to those witnessed in the past could lead to public frustration.

"We thank Interpol for its efforts. However, arrest alone is not enough. The most important task is to bring the accused individuals back to Bangladesh and complete the judicial process," Advocate Iyarul Islam said.

He called upon the government to undertake effective diplomatic initiatives to secure the repatriation of Benazir Ahmed and all other detained Bangladeshi fugitives abroad.

The Bangladesh Congress Secretary General also urged stronger coordination among the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Law, law enforcement agencies and other relevant institutions to facilitate the return of fugitives in the interest of combating international crime, preventing money laundering and upholding the rule of law.

Bangladesh Congress believes that no individual, regardless of influence or status, is above the law. Ensuring equal application of the law and bringing all fugitives back to face justice would serve as a true example of accountability and the rule of law, the statement added.