Former Pakistan oil and gas chief remains in police custody in Abu Dhabi

DUBAI// A former oil and gas chief wanted in Pakistan in connection with a US$850 million (Dh3.12bn) embezzlement remains in Abu Dhabi police custody, a senior official at the Pakistan Embassy has confirmed.

Tauqir Sadiq was arrested on December 29 by police in the capital.

"He is still in the custody of UAE authorities," said the official.

"Matters pertaining to his return to Pakistan are under consideration with the UAE authorities who are in touch with their Pakistani counterparts."

Mr Sadiq is accused of taking kickbacks and commission worth more than Dh3 billion during his time as head of Pakistan's Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority between 2009 and 2011.

The charges against him are significant and could also lead to a criminal case against the Pakistani prime minister, Raja Pervez Ashraf.

Mr Ashraf was water and power minister at the time. Mr Sadiq fled Pakistan a year ago.

nhanif@thenational.ae