KUALA LUMPUR: Dr Zakir Naik's lawyer, Akberdin Abdul Kader, has refuted recent news reports suggesting that the Islamic preacher was going to be arrested in Oman and extradited to India .
Akberdin said Zakir had in fact been given a state reception in Muscat, the capital city of Oman.
"He texted me to say he was safe and staying at a hotel," Akberdin said.
Akberdin further said Zakir had described reports of his alleged arrest as nothing more than "fabricated news" by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government-controlled media.
Zakir had also posted a video on his Facebook page, informing his supporters that he had safely arrived in Oman on March 22.
He also expressed his gratitude to the Sultan of Oman for extending a warm welcome to him.
Last night, Indian news channel News18, citing Indian intelligence sources, claimed that Oman authorities had been asked to detain Zakir when he arrived in the country, where he is scheduled to deliver a sermon.
It was reported that the Indian embassy in Oman was working with local authorities to detain and deport Zakir to India.
He is wanted for questioning in India for alleged money laundering and other unlawful activities.
Zakir, who holds permanent residency in Malaysia, was scheduled to deliver two religious sermons in Oman.
The controversial preacher resides in Putrajaya.