Three Scots to face trial in Canada over death of Bangladesh-origin restaurateur
Rahman, who was married with a young daughter, was attacked on Aug. 17, 2023, after an argument reportedly broke out over an unpaid $150 (£79) bill at his restaurant
Three men from Scotland have agreed to be extradited to Canada to face charges over the death of Sharif Rahman, a Bangladesh-origin Canadian restaurateur, who was fatally assaulted outside his restaurant in Ontario last year.
Robert Evans, 24, is charged with manslaughter in connection with the August 2023 death of Rahman, 44, who owned The Curry House restaurant in downtown Owen Sound. Evans' father, Robert Busby Evans, 47, and his uncle, Barry Evans, 54, face charges of being accessories after the fact to an indictable offence, says the BBC.
All three men consented to extradition in separate hearings before Sheriff Julius Komorowski at Edinburgh Sheriff Court.
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At earlier proceedings, lawyers for the older Evans men argued there was "no equivalent act" to being an accessory to the alleged crime under Scots Law and sought to block extradition. However, defence solicitor Sarah Loosemore told the court that Robert Busby Evans had decided "it would be appropriate for these matters to be dealt with under the Canadian justice system."
The two other accused gave similar consent, and Sheriff Komorowski reminded them there was "no appeal" against their decision.
Rahman, who was married with a young daughter, was attacked on 17 August, 2023, after an argument reportedly broke out over an unpaid $150 (£79) bill at his restaurant, says the Owen Sound Times. He was found injured on the street and died a week later at a hospital in London, Ontario.
According to court summaries, Robert Evans Jr. allegedly punched Rahman, causing injuries that led to his death. His uncle and father are accused of helping him flee the scene and facilitating his return to Scotland.
Prosecutors in Ontario allege that Barry Evans drove his nephew 40 miles from the scene and that Robert Busby Evans booked a flight for his son and drove him to the airport.
Canadian media reported that the three men, who were visiting Canada on holiday visas, left the country shortly after the altercation.
The Evans family members were arrested in Edinburgh and Dalkeith last year on an international warrant. They remain in custody while their extradition cases are referred to Scottish ministers for a final decision.
None of the allegations have been proven in court.
