Hussain fled to Pakistan during the trial, but was found guilty in absentia. The UK has been working closely with Pakistan's authorities since 2017 to secure his arrest and extradition.
Hussain's arrest is a further operational success for the UK-Pakistan justice and accountability partnership established during the British Home Secretary's visit to Pakistan in September 2018.
The partnership includes a renewed commitment to tackle the shared threats of organised crime and international criminality between our two countries.
British High Commissioner to Pakistan Thomas Drew CMG said that the arrest of this individual, who has been convicted of sexual offences by a British court, is a significant achievement, and another excellent example of UK-Pakistan cooperation in tackling international criminality and impunity. It sends a clear message that Pakistan is not a safe haven for international criminals. "I would like to thank the Federal Investigation Agency and the Punjab police for their professionalism and dedication in the execution of this operation.
Choudhry Ikhalaq Hussain's case will now go to courts, who will decide whether to approve his extradition to the UK. In October 2018, Shahid Mohammad, an individual wanted in connection with the murder of five children and three adults, was successfully extradited to the UK said a media release.