Pakistan Demands Extradition of Dissidents for Shabir Ahmed's Deportation
Pakistan has outlined demands to the UK for the extradition of political dissidents, including Shahzad Akbar and Adil Raja, in exchange for the deportation of Shabir Ahmed, the leader of the Rochdale grooming gang. Ahmed, 73, was released from prison after serving 14 years for 30 child rape offences. Although the UK revoked his citizenship, he cannot be deported due to protections under the Immigration Act 1971. Islamabad has indicated a willingness to negotiate, but has accused the UK of using threats regarding visa restrictions and aid. The UK government has resisted extraditing political dissidents, citing potential human rights violations. Negotiations between the two countries regarding Ahmed's status have been ongoing for nearly a year.
Published 15 hours ago • 11 Jul 2026, 12:45 PM IST