In diplomatic victory for India, UK seizes Dawood Ibrahim's assets
What's the story
In a significant victory for India, the UK government has initiated a crackdown on wanted criminal Dawood Ibrahim. His assets in the country have been seized. India had provided UK a dossier on him as far back as 2015. In January, the UAE had also reportedly moved to seize Dawood's assets in the country after NSA Ajit Doval requested officials to act.
Profile
Who is Dawood Ibrahim?
Dawood Ibrahim was the son of a Mumbai/mumbai-police'>Mumbai police constable. He started his criminal life as a member of Haji Mastan's gang in Mumbai's Dongri area. Dawood who later took over the gang was mostly involved in drug trafficking and providing transportation for illegal activities. Dawood and Tiger Memon were among the prime accused behind the 1993 Mumbai blasts which killed 257 people.
Status
Where is the wanted criminal?
According to India, Dawood has made Pakistan his hideout. Evidence offered include Aaj Tak tracking down his den to Karachi; a telephone bill in his wife's name; and several Pakistani passports of Dawood. In 2016, the UN confirmed six Pakistani addresses that India claimed belonged to Dawood. Later, the CBI sent letters rogatory to UAE, UK and Pakistan seeking information about his gutkha business.
Information
What does Pakistan say?
Despite the evidence, Pakistan has consistently denied Dawood's presence on its soil. Islamabad has also refused to cooperate in New Delhi's probe against the gangster, who has a red-corner notice (international arrest warrant) in his name.