Benazir 'will be arrested'

The police will follow court orders and leaders wanted in any case, including Benazir Bhutto, will be "arrested the moment they land in the country," Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Punjab, Malik Asif Hayat, has said.

Hayat was speaking to newsmen in Lahore on Monday.

His remarks clear the confusion over Benazir's immediate status on her return, with some party leaders insisting that "she cannot be held until a court order is issued".

Hayat has, however, clarified that "as per my understanding" the authority to make such an arrest is "already with us".

He said that if there is any change, the police will follow court orders.

His remarks come at a time when there is increased speculation that Benazir will make an attempt to return to the country. Most believe this will take place in September, about a month ahead of the general elections.

"Party leaders have advised Benazir that this would be a suitable time enabling the maximum benefit to be gained from the return and allowing time for preparations ahead of this," a Punjab-based PPP leader said.

But Benazir will select the precise date for her comeback.

The PPP hopes that it can manage matters to allow Benazir at least a few hours of liberty during which she can address party workers and relay her own message.

The Punjab police chief has, however, indicated that action would be taken to prevent precisely this and that Benazir will be "detained without any delay". It is also thought that this warning is intended to deter the PPP leadership from attempting to bring Benazir into the country.

Meanwhile, Pakistani state-run electronic media launched a broadside yesterday against Benazir amid reports that the former prime minister would end her self-exile soon.

A commentary during the main evening news bulletin in Urdu on Pakistan Television hit out at politicians who it said indulged in loot during their rule and chose to live a comfortable life abroad.

Accusing Benazir of making anti-Pakistan statements on foreign soil, the commentary showed Pakistan People's Party leader meeting Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.