Pakistan presses UK to hand over ex-PM aide, retired major linked to anti-state activity

Pakistan has formally asked the United Kingdom to repatriate two Pakistan-wanted individuals, handing over their extradition documents during a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott on Thursday.

The talks in Islamabad focused on bilateral relations, security cooperation and broader issues affecting Pakistan-UK ties, according to officials familiar with the meeting.

Both sides also reviewed efforts to return Pakistani nationals residing illegally in the UK.

Officials said Pakistan submitted the extradition files for former prime ministerial adviser Shahzad Akbar and retired Major Adil Raja, with Naqvi urging “immediate” action on their repatriation.

British High Commissioner Jane Marriott meets Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi in Islamabad on Thursday. GOP

Islamabad has accused both men - now based in the UK - of running online campaigns against the Pakistani state.

Naqvi told the British envoy that Pakistan respects free expression but views disinformation as a threat faced by governments worldwide.

“No country can allow its citizens abroad to malign national institutions or circulate fabricated allegations,” he said, adding that Islamabad has provided what it calls “concrete evidence” to support its request.

He said Pakistan looks forward to enhanced cooperation with London in addressing propaganda networks and individuals facing legal action at home.

The Interior Ministry said it has also initiated a formal extradition process through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Senior officials, including Federal Interior Secretary Muhammad Khurram Agha, attended the meeting.