Interpol closes case against Moonis Elahi

Informs govt that it cannot extradite PTI's exiled leader

MADRID:

The International Criminal Police Organization, commonly known as Interpol, has officially closed the case regarding the arrest warrant for PTI leader Moonis Elahi, who is a son of former Punjab chief minister Parvez Elahi.

The decision marks a significant setback for the PML-N led government, which had sought Interpol's assistance in apprehending the opposition figure.

According to sources, the government had approached Interpol to secure cooperation for Moonis Elahi's arrest in connection with multiple cases filed against him domestically.

Elahi, who has been in self-exile abroad for more than three years, faces numerous charges levelled by authorities.

Interpol's secretary general issued a formal letter announcing the final decision after a thorough review of the matter. The organization heard arguments from all parties involved before concluding that the case does not fall within its jurisdiction.

"This matter is not within Interpol's scope," an official statement stated.

Moonis Elahi has remained outside Pakistan for an extended period, with sources indicating his absence began over three years ago amid escalating political pressures.

The government had been eager to enlist Interpol's support in his extradition, but the international body has now definitively resolved the issue in Elahi's favour.

The development comes amid ongoing political tensions in Pakistan, where opposition leaders affiliated with the PTI continue to face legal challenges. Neither the government nor PTI representatives have issued immediate comments on Interpol's ruling.