Former Inspector General of Bangladesh Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed has been released on bail from a prison in Dubai. A court in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) approved his bail application on Monday, July 27.

Following the completion of legal procedures, Benazir was released from prison on Thursday, July 30.

Speaking to Asia Post, a private Bangladeshi media outlet, following his release, Benazir stated that he secured his release through legal channels and is in good health. When asked about upcoming legal proceedings, he declined to comment in detail at this time.

However, reports indicate that the local court imposed several conditions on his bail. Under these terms, Benazir’s passport will remain in the custody of the court, and he is prohibited from leaving the UAE without permission.

Sources further noted that hearings took place in the Dubai court involving both parties concerning extradition documents and legal procedures submitted by the Bangladesh government. Subsequently, the court decided to grant Benazir conditional bail.

No official statement has been issued by Dubai authorities regarding the matter. When contacted, the relevant branch of the Bangladesh Police Headquarters also declined to comment.

Previously, the former IGP was arrested in Dubai in connection with a case filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). He was detained with the assistance of Dubai Police and the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol). Dubai authorities informed the Bangladeshi government of the arrest via a letter on June 12.

Prior to this, the ACC filed multiple cases against Benazir Ahmed on charges of acquiring illegal wealth and money laundering. International measures were pursued against him as part of the ongoing investigation into these allegations.

Benazir Ahmed served as IGP from April 15, 2020, to September 30, 2022. Prior to that tenure, he served as the Commissioner of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) and Director General of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB).

In December 2021, the United States imposed sanctions on seven RAB officials over human rights violations, a list that included Benazir Ahmed.

Months before the 2024 mass uprising that ousted the Awami League from power, corruption allegations emerged against Benazir Ahmed, prompting the ACC to launch an investigation, at which point he left the country. He subsequently faced multiple cases and active arrest warrants issued by the courts.