Pak minister Mohsin Naqvi’s car searched by London police; sparks diplomatic embarrassment

Pak minister Mohsin Naqvi

A video showing the car of Pakistan’s Interior Minister being stopped and searched by London police has gone viral, raising questions about diplomatic protocol and international perception.

During a visit to London reportedly aimed at discussing extradition of wanted individuals, Naqvi’s official vehicle was stopped outside the British Foreign Office and subjected to a thorough inspection for possible explosives or narcotics. The footage shows officers searching the bonnet, trunk, and interior of the car while the minister was reportedly still inside.

The dramatic incident quickly drew attention on social media, with many in Pakistan describing it as a public humiliation. “Major embarrassment for Mohsin Naqvi,” ran the headline in one widely shared post. Critics pointed to the implications for Pakistan’s international image and asked whether the search signalled deeper suspicions about the minister’s mission to the UK.

So far, neither London authorities nor the British government have issued an official statement addressing the search. Nor has Pakistan’s foreign mission in the UK commented. The silence from both sides has only added to speculation and concern over what the incident might imply for diplomatic relations.

Naqvi had travelled to London reportedly to pursue extradition talks involving two men accused in high-profile cases: Shahzad Akbar and Adil Raja. Critics suggest that the security check could be a sign of British urgency or suspicion given the nature of the visit — though no formal confirmation of such a motive has been made public.

Many observers see this as more than a routine security check. The timing, setting — right outside the Foreign Office — and the presence of a high-ranking minister make the event unusual. Some analysts believe it demonstrates growing international unease over Pakistan’s political and legal issues. Others argue it has exposed how shaky the country’s diplomatic standing might be, particularly amid ongoing security and criminal-justice controversies.

For Pakistan’s leadership, the incident has become an unwanted publicity moment. The video has already generated derision online and could complicate future diplomatic efforts — especially if questions arise about why such a high-level official was subjected to such treatment. For London and other capitals, it may prompt reconsideration of how they handle visits by foreign officials, balancing security concerns with respect for diplomatic norms.