Pakistan declares JeM chief Azhar fugitive, increases bounty before FATF review

Pakistan's authorities have designated Masood Azhar, the leader of militant organization Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), as a fugitive while simultaneously increasing the monetary bounty for information leading to his apprehension. The move comes as the country faces intensified scrutiny from the Financial Action Task Force, the global watchdog on money laundering and terror financing.

The decision represents a significant shift in Pakistan's approach toward managing designated terror groups and their leadership. Pakistani officials have historically faced international criticism over their handling of militant organizations operating from its territory, particularly those accused of carrying out attacks in neighbouring countries.

Azhar, who has long been considered a high-profile militant commander, has evaded capture for years despite being designated as a terrorist by multiple countries and international bodies. His organization JeM has been linked to various militant activities in South Asia, drawing repeated calls from the international community for concrete action.

The timing of Pakistan's announcement suggests an attempt to demonstrate compliance with international counter-terrorism standards as the country undergoes review by the FATF, which evaluates nations' efforts to combat financial support for terrorism and money laundering. Such moves are often undertaken by countries seeking to improve their standing with the task force.

The increased bounty is expected to incentivize the public's cooperation in locating Azhar, though his continued evasion underscores the challenges Pakistan faces in apprehending entrenched militant figures within its borders.