Interpol Issues Red Notice for Ex-IGP Benazir

The International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) has officially issued a red notice against former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed, marking a significant development in an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption and abuse of power during his tenure.

The confirmation came Tuesday afternoon from Enamul Haque Sagar, Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of the Media and Public Relations Wing at the Bangladesh Police Headquarters. Speaking to reporters, Sagar revealed that the red notice was issued earlier this month, though it has yet to appear on Interpol’s public database.

A red notice from Interpol is a formal request to law enforcement worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender, or similar legal action. While it is not an international arrest warrant, it significantly elevates the level of international scrutiny and pressure on the accused.

This latest action against Benazir Ahmed follows weeks of media attention and public discourse surrounding allegations of extensive corruption, illegal wealth accumulation, and misuse of power during his term as the chief of Bangladesh Police. Previously a highly influential figure in law enforcement, Benazir Ahmed has faced mounting criticism after investigative reports and asset disclosures allegedly linked him and close associates to illicit financial activities.

In a related development, Police Headquarters has also confirmed that similar red notices have been sought against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 11 other individuals, though details regarding their cases remain under wraps. It is unclear at this stage whether Interpol has acted upon those requests as well.

Legal experts note that the issuance of a red notice marks a turning point in Bangladesh’s domestic anti-corruption drive, especially if cooperation from international agencies leads to arrests or extraditions. However, without visibility on Interpol’s public site, questions remain about the current status and global enforceability of the notice against Benazir.

As of now, Benazir Ahmed’s whereabouts are unconfirmed, and no official statements have been released by him or his legal representatives.

Further updates are expected as the case unfolds and as Interpol’s official channels update the public listing of wanted individuals.5