Even Ambassador loses diplomatic immunity if involved in capital crime

LAHORE: Principal Punjab University Law College Prof Samee Ozair, an expert on international law, Sunday said that even ambassador loses diplomatic immunity if involved in capital crime.

Commenting on immunity to Raymond Davis, an employee of the local US Consulate directly involved in the double murder of Pakistanis in the city a couple of days ago, he said that in international law, a clear distinction has been made between members of the diplomatic staff, members of administrative and technical staff and members of the service staff for the purpose of privileges and immunity. It is also seen whether an act committed by a member of diplomatic mission was performed during his duty.

He further stated that it is generally believed that they will not violate the provisions of the law of the state where they are appointed. Besides this, it may also be noted that there is certain conditions under which the diplomatic agents may lose their immunities.

Prof Samee Ozair said that according to chapter 25, part III of the International Law which deals with the functions of diplomatic agents that no immunity is allowed to any diplomatic agents even ambassador involved in capital crime of the State.

He said Raymond Davis also used illegal weapons for the commission of capital crime which he added is another violation of the international and local law.

He said that US should not misinterpret the diplomatic immunity in their own interest and should respect the law of State as courts in Pakistan enjoys the best freedom in the world under Chief Justice of Supreme Court of Pakistan Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhary.