A Pakistani court has officially declared Mirza Shehzad Akbar, the former advisor on interior and accountability to ex-premier Imran Khan, a proclaimed offender. Judicial Magistrate Muhammad Abbas Shah announced the decision and issued orders for Akbar's arrest.
Court Issues Arrest Warrant After Repeated No-Shows
The legal action follows Akbar's repeated failure to appear before the court, despite being summoned multiple times. The case stems from allegedly controversial statements he posted on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. Based on these posts, the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) registered a formal case against him in July 2025.
In a significant development, the investigative agency has already submitted the challan, or charge sheet, against Akbar in court. This formal document outlines the evidence and charges, moving the case forward in the judicial process.
Pakistan Initiates Extradition from the United Kingdom
Mirza Shehzad Akbar, who also previously served as the chief of the Asset Recovery Unit, is currently residing in the United Kingdom. In a decisive move, the Government of Pakistan submitted Akbar's extradition documents to the British High Commissioner on Thursday. The submission formally requests his immediate return to Pakistan to face the charges.
This extradition request is not isolated. The government has simultaneously requested the repatriation of Adil Raja, a former Pakistan Army officer who stands accused of engaging in anti-state propaganda. The dual requests highlight a broader effort to bring individuals facing serious charges back to the country.
Broader Legal Troubles: The £190 Million Case
Akbar's legal challenges extend beyond the cyber crime case. In July of this year, he was named a central figure in the high-profile £190 million reference case. This separate investigation involves the now-incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan and prominent businessman Malik Riaz, adding another layer of complexity to Akbar's ongoing legal battles.
The court's designation of Akbar as a proclaimed offender is a serious legal step. It signifies that the authorities have been unable to locate or secure his appearance through standard summons, paving the way for more aggressive measures to ensure he stands trial.
