TEHRAN – The head of the Iranian International Police has addressed Canada's decision not to extradite Iranian fugitive embezzler Mahmoud-Reza Khavari to Tehran, urging Ottawa to separate political matters from financial and security offenses.

As reported by IRNA, Majid Karimi stated that Iran is actively pursuing the case, highlighting that the court's rulings have been shared with Interpol and Canadian law enforcement.

Karimi remarked, “This situation has unfortunately evolved beyond normal circumstances and has taken on a political dimension.”

Karimi acknowledged the absence of an extradition agreement between Iran and Canada but emphasized that both nations are members of Interpol, which allows for potential cooperation and discussions regarding extradition matters.

He emphasized Interpol's position on distinguishing between political and non-political issues, calling for Canada to engage in collaborative efforts in this context.

Khavari, a former Iranian banker, played a key role in the 2011 Iranian embezzlement scandal, which resulted in significant financial losses for the country. Iran's attempts to extradite him from Canada have thus far been unsuccessful.