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Govt Seeks Malik Riaz’s Extradition as NAB Intensifies Al-Qadir Trust Case Probe
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar urges Malik Riaz & his son to face justice in the Al-Qadir Trust case. NAB pursues UAE extradition over fraud, money laundering, and illegal land deals.
ND
by News Desk
2025-01-22
Govt Seeks Malik Riaz’s Extradition as NAB Intensifies Al-Qadir Trust Case Probe

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Wednesday called on property tycoon Malik Riaz and his son to “face the courts and present their defence” as the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) escalated efforts to investigate their alleged involvement in the Al-Qadir Trust case.

This follows the NAB’s announcement of reaching out to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for Riaz’s extradition, citing evidence of fraudulent activities, deceptive practices, and public deception. The case has already seen the conviction of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his spouse Bushra Bibi, with Riaz and his son named as co-accused.

NAB’s Evidence and Legal Actions

In a press release, NAB confirmed it has substantial evidence linking Riaz and his associates to multiple illegal activities, including fraudulent land acquisitions and financial irregularities. Tarar highlighted the Takht-Pari case in Rawalpindi, involving allegations of an illegal housing scheme and massive public financial exploitation.

The minister stressed that Riaz’s refusal to appear in court reflects a lack of defence in the Al-Qadir Trust case and related inquiries. He assured that NAB operates impartially and is pursuing “credible steps” against even the most influential figures.

Malik Riaz’s Response

In a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Riaz described NAB’s actions as a “new demand for blackmail” and reiterated his refusal to testify. He denied the allegations, asserting that his Bahria Town Dubai project is legitimate and garnering global investor interest.

“The Dubai project will become a symbol of Pakistan’s pride worldwide,” Riaz claimed, adding that his decision to relocate abroad stemmed from years of alleged blackmail and fake cases in Pakistan.

Allegations of Money Laundering

The NAB’s investigation accuses Riaz of laundering funds through international real estate ventures. Tarar pointed to the £190 million case, where funds returned to Pakistan by the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) were allegedly diverted to settle a Supreme Court fine for Bahria Town.

NAB also accused Riaz’s son of transferring land to individuals close to Imran Khan, including 240 kanals to Farhat Shahzadi and land to Zulfi Bukhari under a trust that purportedly did not exist at the time.

Political and Legal Implications

The Al-Qadir Trust case has intensified scrutiny of Pakistan’s elite and their alleged misuse of public funds. While the government pursues legal action against Riaz, his claims of victimization and international business ventures raise questions about the efficacy of the accountability process.

NAB has warned investors against participating in Riaz’s Dubai project, alleging that investments in the venture could constitute money laundering. Meanwhile, Riaz has defended his business practices, emphasizing compliance with laws across all jurisdictions.

Future Legal Steps

Tarar reiterated the government’s commitment to bringing Riaz and other absconders to justice, irrespective of their wealth or influence. “This is the first time the NAB has taken action against such powerful individuals based on evidence while fulfilling legal requirements,” he stated.

As Pakistan grapples with high-profile accountability cases, the resolution of the Al-Qadir Trust case could set a precedent for addressing corruption and financial malfeasance.
Tagged:

NAB

Accountability

MalikRiaz

AlQadirTrustCase
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