Suspect wanted over 2016 warehouse murder held by police in Pakistan

A 27-year-old man suspected of murdering a businessman in a warehouse robbery has been detained in Pakistan.

Tahir Zarif, from Derby, was being sought in connection with the February 2016 murder of Akhtar Javeed at his catering supplies firm in Digbeth, Birmingham.

Detective Inspector Caroline Corfield, who is leading the investigation, said of Zarif's arrest: "This is fantastic news for the family of Mr Javeed.

"For the last two years they have been living with the fact that the man suspected of killing him is at large somewhere, but with his detention they are another step closer to securing justice.

"We have been in regular contact with the Pakistani authorities and will continue to liaise with them over the deportation process."

Three men were jailed in September 2016 for a total of 40 years for their part in the armed robbery that led to Mr Javeed's death.

Zarif is thought to have left Britain via Heathrow airport five days after the killing, in which the victim was shot by a masked gunman at point-blank range.

A trial at Birmingham Crown Court which ended in September 2016 heard how Mr Javeed, aged 56, was tied up and shot in the head after being ordered to open a safe.

Det Insp Corfield added: "Mr Javeed's family have been very patient and always said they have faith in the justice system to bring Zarif back to the UK to stand trial.

"It was hugely satisfying to break the news to them that our suspect has been detained."