A man in Pakistan has been arrested in connection of the murder of Businessman and father-of-four Akhtar Javeed who was shot dead last February trying to protect his employees during a failed armed robbery in Digbeth.
Tahir Zarif, who fled the country days after the killing was placed on police systems around the world as a wanted man.
West Midlands Police believed Zarif had gone into hiding in Pakistan and detectives have confirmation that he has been arrested and being detained in a Pakistani prison.
Detective Inspector Caroline Corfield, who is leading the investigation, said: “This is fantastic news for the family of Mr Javeed.
“For the last two years they have been living with the fact that the man suspected of killing him is at large somewhere – but with his detention they are another step closure to securing justice.
“We have been in regular contact with the Pakistani authorities and will continue to liaise with them over the deportation process.”
She 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.”
Mr Javeed’s heartbroken wife Aisha, from West Ham, London, issued a plea last year for her husband’s killer to be caught.
“I have been counting, every single day.
“Since this has happened, I have not slept for one night.
“My husband was very polite, very nice and he was ready to help anyone.
“He was a very caring man and he would care for everyone, whether he knew them or not.
“The main member of my family has gone.”
Mr Javeed, 56, was shot and killed on February 3 in 2016 after he gallantly tried to fight off his attackers.
Three men were jailed for almost 40 years for their involvement in the armed robbery that led to the death.
Suraj Misty, 26, was found guilty of the manslaughter of Mr Javeed and was sentenced to 23 years in prison.
He was also sentenced to 20 years conspiracy to commit robbery and eight years for possession of firearms to run concurrently.
Lamar Wali, 19, was found guilty of conspiracy to commit robbery and sentenced to seven years in prison.
Sander van Aalten pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit robbery and was sentenced to six years and eight months
