Pak completes formalities for Interpol notice against Musharraf

Pakistani authorities have completed all legal formalities for issuance of a Red Corner Notice by Interpol for the arrest of former military ruler Pervez Musharraf in connection with the probe into former premier Benazir Bhutto's assassination.

Interpol had earlier sent a questionnaire to the Federal Investigation Agency after receiving a request from Pakistan to issue a Red Corner Notice against Musharraf, currently living outside the country in self-exile.

Interpol sought details of the evidence and orders issued by a Pakistani court.

The FIA has sent a reply to Interpol along with the order, in which an anti-terrorism court had declared Musharraf a "proclaimed offender" or fugitive, The Express Tribune quoted its sources as saying.

The FIA's response includes summons for Musharraf's appearance in the anti-terrorism court, his arrest warrant, copies of advertisements published in three Pakistani and one British newspapers, copies of public notices pasted outside the former President's residence in Islamabad and public places, an investigation report and supporting evidence.

The court had declared Musharraf a fugitive after he failed to cooperate with investigators probing Bhutto's assassination in December 2007.

He has also been accused of failing to provide adequate security to Bhutto despite being aware of a threat to her life.

Officials of the Counter-Terrorism Wing of the FIA and a prosecutor said all the required information had been sent to Interpol.

Azhar Chaudhry, one of the prosecutors in the assassination case, said Interpol is bound to issue a Red Corner Notice against Musharraf after receiving these documents.