Dhaka: State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Sunday expressed optimism about the swift return of former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed to Bangladesh. She confirmed that the government is actively communicating with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) authorities to facilitate his return.

According to United News of Bangladesh, Shama Obaed Islam stated that both governments have exchanged the necessary documents, and the UAE requested specific information, which has been duly provided. “The UAE is proceeding in accordance with its laws, and the Bangladesh government will follow the due process for the next steps,” she informed reporters following her participation in a city programme.

The development comes as Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Humaiun Kobir announced that the government is beginning to initiate the process for Benazir Ahmed’s return from the UAE. The Home Ministry is actively engaged in the necessary procedures and is engaged in ongoing discussions. Responding to inquiries about media reports regarding Benazir’s bail in the UAE, Kobir noted, “If there is progress, you will be informed by the Home Ministry or our Foreign Ministry.”

Benazir Ahmed was apprehended by UAE police in Dubai concerning a case filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) in Bangladesh. His arrest was reported to the Bangladesh government on June 12, a development disclosed by Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed in Parliament on June 14. The minister highlighted this as a significant achievement for Bangladesh Police, expressing confidence in Benazir Ahmed’s prompt return.

Interpol had issued a red notice against the former police chief in April 2025. Meanwhile, the Bangladesh government, in alliance with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has officially launched the National Action Plan (NAP) 2026-2030 in Dhaka, focusing on the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM). The event underscored Bangladesh’s commitment to ensuring safe migration and maximizing its contribution to national development, supported by the European Union through the Prottasha II project.