Calgary Doctor to Seek Bail Following Alleged International Child Abduction
A Calgary physician accused of unlawfully taking his young son overseas for an extended period is scheduled to appear in court this week to seek release on bail. Defence counsel Himmat Shergill confirmed during a Wednesday court appearance that a bail hearing has been set for Friday afternoon before Justice Heather Lamoureux.
International Investigation Leads to Arrest
Muhammad Zia-Ur Rahman, 62, was detained in Mauritius in December after Calgary police received information about his presence at Sir Seewoosagur Ramagoolam International Airport with his seven-year-old son. The arrest followed an extensive international investigation involving multiple agencies.
Police allege the abduction began in late November 2023 when Rahman picked up his then-five-year-old son from the child's mother's home and subsequently traveled with him to Turkiye. According to authorities, the father and son spent approximately two years living in or traveling through multiple countries including Turkiye, Russia, Azerbaijan, and the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu.
Complex International Investigation
The Calgary Police Service investigation involved collaboration with the RCMP, Global Affairs Canada, the Canadian Central Authority, and Interpol. International alerts were issued for both the father and child, which ultimately led to the arrest in Mauritius.
Sergeant Scott Mizibrocky, speaking at a Tuesday news conference, indicated that the investigation continues to examine whether Rahman received assistance from others during the alleged abduction. "It's going to be part of our investigation as we continue on, if he received assistance in Canada or overseas," Mizibrocky stated.
Child Reunited with Mother
Following Rahman's detention in Mauritius, the child was reunited with his mother just days later. Mizibrocky reported meeting the mother and son upon their return to Calgary and noted the child is adjusting well to being back home.
"I did meet them at the airport when they arrived in Calgary, and he is doing quite well," Mizibrocky said. "He's been reacquainted with his siblings, his family, and is registered back in school."
Legal Proceedings Underway
Rahman, who is currently held at the Calgary Remand Centre, was not required to appear for Wednesday's brief court appearance. Shergill informed the court that he had consulted with the assigned Crown prosecutor before scheduling the bail hearing.
According to police, Rahman is a Canadian citizen who studied medicine in Pakistan and practiced in Canada. The case highlights the complexities of international child custody disputes and the challenges law enforcement faces when alleged abductions cross multiple international borders.
The bail hearing scheduled for Friday will determine whether Rahman will be released pending trial on charges related to the alleged international child abduction.
