ISLAMABAD, Feb 14: The government on Saturday confirmed the arrest of Aizaz Jaffery, a businessman of Islamabad, in connection with the on-going investigations into nuclear proliferation by 'certain individuals'.

Maj-Gen Shaukat Sultan, the director-general of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), while confirming the news told Dawn that Mr Jaffery was under arrest for 'quite some time' and was being investigated because of his links with Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan.

"Yes. He is under arrest and he is being interrogated in the same connection," Gen Sultan said.

Aizaz Jaffery, who operates a licensed posh entertainment spot called 'Hot Shots' in the F-9 Park in Islamabad back since mid-90s with facilities including the first ever 'Bowling alley' in the capital and indoor swimming pool facilities, had always boasted of close contacts with Dr Khan.

Official sources in Islamabad said Aizaz Jaffery has been arrested and is being interrogated in connection with Dr Khan's alleged links with Iran's nuclear programme.

"He was business partner and an intermediary working for Dr Khan. He worked as an emissary between Dr Khan and Iran," the official sources in Islamabad said.

He said it is quite some time now that Aizaz Jaffery is in the custody of those investigating into the nuclear proliferation.