ISLAMABAD – Following the issuance of Interpol’s red notices, Spanish authorities have arrested two fugitives wanted by Pakistan in various cases.
Nawazish Ali Hanjra, wanted in 23 cases including terrorism, murder, and kidnapping for ransom, and Haroon Iqbal, wanted in a separate case, were arrested in Spain.
The fugitives will be handed over to Pakistan after completion of formalities, the interior ministry said on Sunday. The development is a milestone in international law enforcement cooperation, and a sign that Pakistan is intensifying efforts to bring back criminals who have taken refuge abroad.
Pakistan has been requesting the arrest and extradition of 38 wanted individuals from Spain through Interpol Red Notices for several years. During his recent visit, Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry met with his Spanish counterpart, Fernando Grande-Marlaska and demanded the arrest and extradition of wanted individuals.
Tallal Chaudhry thanked the Spanish Interior Minister for the arrest of the two wanted suspects and expressed hope that other absconders hiding in Spain will also be apprehended soon and handed over to Pakistan.
He expressed confidence that this success marks the beginning of a broader crackdown on fugitives who flee Pakistan to avoid legal consequences.
