A West African court has ordered Cape Verde’s government to free Alex Saab, a Colombian businessman close to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, and halt plans to have him extradited to the U.S.

The Economic Community of West African States Court of Justice found the authorities on nation carried out Saab’s arrest before a so-called Red Notice had been issued by Interpol.

Justice Edward Amoako Asante said Monday at the Abuja-based tribunal that the court found Saab’s arrest by the criminal police of Cape Verde was arbitrary and subsequent detention throughout the period until today was illegal.

Justice Amoako demands Saab’s immediate release from custody and all processes to extradite him halted.

Deborah Amuwo reports.