ISLAMABAD: Pakistani authorities have sought international action against Norwegian journalist Rolf J. Wideroe, requesting issuance of a red notice in connection with a fraud case registered in Shaheed Benazirabad.
According to an official communication from the Home Department Sindh, the provincial government has asked the Ministry of Interior to pursue a red warrant through international channels, citing a pending criminal case involving alleged financial fraud.
The case relates to FIR No. 225/2015 registered at A-Section Police Station Nawabshah under multiple sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, including fraud and criminal breach of trust. Authorities allege that Wideroe took approximately Rs10 million from a local resident on the promise of arranging a Norwegian passport.
Police records indicate that the accused left Pakistan after the incident and has not returned despite repeated legal notices. He has been declared a proclaimed offender by Pakistani courts and remains wanted by law enforcement agencies.
According to officials, non-bailable arrest warrants were issued in 2016 after Wideroe failed to appear before the court. Investigators stated that he is believed to be residing in Norway and has not cooperated with Pakistani authorities.
The complainant, identified as Maqsood Ali, alleged that he was defrauded of Rs10 million and later received threats when he demanded either fulfilment of the promise or return of the money.
Officials said the case has been raised with federal authorities multiple times in recent years, with requests sent in 2022, 2024 and 2025 seeking assistance in securing Wideroe’s arrest through international mechanisms.
Separately, court records show that Wideroe has also been declared a proclaimed offender in another case related to publication of allegedly defamatory content after failing to respond to legal notices.
Authorities said efforts are ongoing to secure his arrest and bring him back to Pakistan to face legal proceedings.
Today's E-Paper