US to Pakistan: Re-arrest and prosecute Hafiz Saeed

The US has demanded the immediate re-arrest and prosecution of Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saaed - who walked free on Friday - warning Islamabad that there would be "repercussions" if it fails to take "decisive action" against the notorious terrorist.

Hafiz Saeed. Pic/AFP

In a strongly worded statement, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders on Saturday said the US strongly condemns his release and calls for his immediate re-arrest and prosecution. "If Pakistan does not take action to lawfully detain Saeed and charge him for his crimes, its inaction will have repercussions for bilateral relations and for Pakistan's global reputation," Sanders said. She said the Pakistani government now "has an opportunity to demonstrate its seriousness in confronting all forms of terrorism, without distinction, by arresting and charging Hafiz Saeed for his crimes."