A bail hearing has been scheduled for the Calgary father who allegedly abducted his son and kept him hidden overseas for over two years. Muhammad Zia-Ur Rahman, aged 62, appeared in court for the first time on Wednesday following his extradition from Mauritius. Rahman, a former doctor in Alberta, is facing a charge of child abduction.
According to authorities, on December 5, 2023, Rahman took his five-year-old son to Turkey before traveling through various countries such as Russia, Azerbaijan, and Vanuatu over the next two years. Despite efforts by Calgary police to locate them, cooperation from some of these countries was lacking, as stated during a recent press briefing.
Law enforcement agency Interpol issued a Red Notice for Rahman, prompting his arrest in Mauritius on December 16, 2025. The advocacy group End Violence Everywhere facilitated the reunion of the boy with his mother, who traveled to Mauritius with their assistance before returning to Canada together.
Sgt. Scott Mizibrocky, the lead investigator, journeyed to Mauritius on January 17 to bring Rahman back to Canada. Rahman, currently held at the Calgary Remand Centre, had his initial court appearance with defense attorney Himmat Shergill representing him. Shergill informed Justice Heather Lamoureux of his intention to request Rahman’s release from custody during the upcoming hearing on Friday.
Although Rahman had faced previous domestic assault-related charges, these were all dropped in October 2023.
