KARACHI: Saleem Shahzad, leader of Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) on Monday has been arrested at Karachi airport upon his return to Pakistan after 25 years , Aaj News reported. 

Saleem Shahzad reached Karachi from Dubai on Monday morning where he was arrested by police officials. Senior Superintendent Police Malir Rao Anwar confirmed the news. His passport has been confiscated by immigration officials.

Traveling on a British passport via an international airline, Shahzad landed at Karachi airport a little after 10:30 AM reportedly.

Speaking to Aaj News prior to his departure from Dubai, Shahzad said he would announce his next political plan of action after reaching Karachi and consulting with friends and family. He said that he is willing to join that political party which brings peace in Karachi. “Rumours of me joining MQM-Pakistan are false,” he had said. Shahzad further said that he had not committed any crime.

Reaching #karachi inshallah Monday morning may Allah Bless our city,province and my country Ameen

— Saleem Shahzad (@saleemshahzad6) February 5, 2017

Shahzad, a founding member of the now-defunct MQM, had been living in London since 1992. However, he visited Pakistan three time during this period.