CCD secures Interpol arrest from Saudi Arabia amid continuing public scrutiny

At a time when the Crime Control Department (CCD) continues to face criticism on social media and from some political circles,

MANDI BAHAUDDIN: At a time when the Crime Control Department (CCD) continues to face criticism on social media and from some political circles, the department has claimed another major success after securing the arrest of a murder suspect from Saudi Arabia through Interpol.
Officials said the operation was carried out under the supervision of District Officer CCD Mandi Bahauddin Amir Abbas Shirazi, while Sub-Inspector Ghulam Raza played a key role in pursuing the case and coordinating with relevant authorities.
According to CCD officials, proclaimed offender Muhammad Nawaz, son of Ghulam Haider, a resident of Mong, had been wanted in a murder case registered at Saddar Police Station Mandi Bahauddin. The suspect was nominated in FIR No. 564/21 dated October 24, 2021, under sections 302, 148, 149 and 109 of the Pakistan Penal Code.
Investigators said the accused had managed to evade arrest for years by staying abroad. Following legal formalities and coordination with national and international agencies, a Red Notice was issued through Interpol, eventually leading to his arrest in Saudi Arabia.
The development is being viewed as one of the most significant achievements for CCD Mandi Bahauddin in recent months, particularly as the department seeks to establish its credibility amid an ongoing debate over its performance.
Since its formation, CCD has remained under the spotlight. While supporters argue that the department is targeting hardened criminals, proclaimed offenders and organized crime networks, critics have questioned some of its operations and raised concerns through social media campaigns. Several incidents involving CCD officials have also triggered public discussion and criticism.
Despite the scrutiny, CCD officers insist that the department should be judged on its operational results rather than isolated controversies.
The arrest of a suspect wanted in a four-year-old murder case from another country adds to a growing list of CCD operations across Punjab. Officials maintain that the department has been actively pursuing proclaimed offenders, drug traffickers, armed gangs and other suspects involved in serious crimes.
A senior officer involved in the operation said the latest arrest demonstrates the department’s commitment to tracking fugitives regardless of where they attempt to hide.
“This case shows that criminals cannot permanently escape the law by leaving the country. Through international cooperation and legal channels, law enforcement agencies can reach offenders even beyond Pakistan’s borders,” the officer said.
Residents and legal observers in Mandi Bahauddin described the arrest as a positive development for the victim’s family, who had been waiting for progress in the case for several years.
The successful operation is also likely to strengthen CCD’s position at a time when the department faces intense public scrutiny. While criticism of CCD continues on various platforms, officials point to arrests, recoveries and high-profile operations as evidence that the department is producing results on the ground.
For now, the arrest of Muhammad Nawaz stands as a significant test case for CCD’s claim that no proclaimed offender is beyond the reach of the law, whether hiding in Punjab or thousands of miles away overseas.