Man suspected of 2016 Birmingham murder detained in Pakistan

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A man suspected of shooting dead a businessman at his Birmingham factory almost two years ago has been detained in Pakistan, West Midlands Police confirm.

Tahir Zarif, who is from Derby was sought over the February 2016 murder of Akhtar Javeed during a botched robbery at his Direct Source 3 firm in Digbeth’s Rea Street.

West Midlands Police suspected Zarif had gone into hiding in Pakistan – and last night detectives had confirmation he’d been arrested and being detained in a Pakistani prison.

Detective Inspector Caroline Corfield, who is leading the investigation, said:

Three men were jailed in September 2016 for a total of 40 years for their part in the armed robbery that led to Mr Javeed’s death.

26-year-old Suraj Misty, was handed a 23-year sentence for manslaughter, while Lamar Wali and Sander van Aalten were imprisoned for seven years and six years eight months, respectively, for conspiracy to commit robbery.

At the time, Birmingham Crown Court heard how 56-year-old Mr Javeed was tied up and shot in the leg as a violent warning to open up the company’s safe.

He attempted to escape but during a struggle was shot again and died at the scene.

Det Insp Corfield added: “Mr Javeed’s family have been very patient and always said they have faith in the justice system to bring Zarif back to the UK to stand trial.

“It was hugely satisfying to break the news to them that our suspect has been detained.”