A severe wave of wildfires is spreading across Europe, fueled by an intense summer heatwave, extreme drought and strong winds. Blazes have forced mass evacuations, destroyed homes and stretched emergency services, with the European Commission's Joint Research Centre warning of very extreme fire danger across parts of Central and Eastern Europe.

Europe Wildfires: Belgium, France, Croatia & Germany scorched by wildfires 

Coach Rudi Garcia said "everyone" expects his Belgium team to be eliminated by Spain in Friday's World Cup quarter-final, but backed his side to pull off a famous victory. European champions Spain enter the match in Los Angeles as strong favorites, having not conceded a goal all tournament.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mbappe-dembele-fire-france-into-fifa-world-cup-2026-semifinals-beat-morocco-2-0-1783634367156">Mbappe, Dembele fire France into FIFA World Cup 2026 semis, beat Morocco 2-0</a>Belgium have had a more testing time of it, only narrowly topping their group after two draws with Egypt and Iran, and requiring a late comeback to dispatch Senegal.But at a press conference Thursday, Garcia appeared to relish being dubbed the "underdog."

Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 live on Zee5

"Everyone is already talking about us going home. But we think that we can do it," said the coach."We think we can pull it off, and we're going to do everything we can to get to the semis."Belgium did find their feet in Monday's round-of-16 clash, thrashing the United States 4-1 to end the hopes of the World Cup co-hosts.Garcia pointed out that Belgium are among the tournament's top scorers, behind only France and Argentina with 13 goals. The Belgians' 107 shots are second only to France, who have played a game more.Asked if he was concerned a predominantly American crowd in Los Angeles could be hostile as a result of Belgium's victory over the US, Garcia said it was the least of his concerns."We just beat the US, obviously, and again at a stadium where everyone was against us. So I don't think the conditions will be any more difficult tomorrow," said the coach.He added: "It's not the fans that score the goals. We're going to focus on what we can do. We've got enough on our plate with the Spanish squad that is a wonderful footballing team."And even if we're the underdog for tomorrow, we're going to do everything we can to give them a run for their money."Belgium's veteran striker Romelu Lukaku echoed his manager's words, telling journalists that "if you manage to get this far, then you're not going to play a game just to go home.""I think we also have the necessary talent. Tomorrow we need to play the perfect game," said Lukaku.

Belgium have had a more testing time of it, only narrowly topping their group after two draws with Egypt and Iran, and requiring a late comeback to dispatch Senegal.

Coach Rudi Garcia said "everyone" expects his Belgium team to be eliminated by Spain in Friday's World Cup quarter-final, but backed his side to pull off a famous victory. European champions Spain enter the match in Los Angeles as strong favorites, having not conceded a goal all tournament. Also Read - Mbappe, Dembele fire France into FIFA World Cup 2026 semis, beat Morocco 2-0 Belgium have had a more testing time of it, only narrowly topping their group after two draws with Egypt and Iran, and requiring a late comeback to dispatch Senegal. But at a press conference Thursday, Garcia appeared to relish being dubbed the "underdog."

Belgium have had a more testing time of it, only narrowly topping their group after two draws with Egypt and Iran, and requiring a late comeback to dispatch Senegal.

FIFA 2026 | Coach Rudi Garcia says everyone 'expects' Belgium to lose against Spain

Next up, we have a special economic segment called pitch & portfolio, a series where we analyze the beautiful game of football through the lens of global markets.

As we come down to the business end of the tournament, the analysis goes deeper, but to see who wins the economic match.
As Spain and Belgium prepare to face off, this is a closely watched contest on the field and in their portfolios.

World cup of economies: Spain vs Belgium

Next up, we have a special economic segment called pitch & portfolio, a series where we analyze the beautiful game of football through the lens of global markets.
We put world cup rivals against each other, but to see who wins the economic match.
As Belgium and Senegal prepare to face off on the world cup stage, this is more than just a football clash.

World cup of economies: Belgium vs Senegal

European prosecutors have launched coordinated raids across France, Italy, Spain and Belgium as part of an investigation into the alleged misuse of €4.3 million in European Parliament funds by the now-defunct far-right Identity and Democracy (ID) group. The probe centres on alleged financial irregularities between 2019 and 2024. 

EU raids target far-right group in €4.3m misuse of funds probe 

We have a special economic segment called Pitch & Portfolio, a series where we analyse the beautiful game of football through the lens of global markets. We put World Cup rivals against each other, but to see who wins the economic match.

World Cup of Economies: New Zealand vs Belgium | World Business Watch 

Belgium is cleaning up after torrential rain triggered flash floods across parts of the country, inundating homes, roads and businesses. The province of Namur was among the worst-hit areas, where residents are now assessing the damage. Watch the full video to know more on this!

 Belgium Floods: Flood-Hit Belgian Towns Assess Heavy Losses After Devastating Rains 

Belgium’s famous pear-growing region has burst into bloom earlier than usual this year, delighting farmers and nature enthusiasts alike. The blossoms cover orchards in vibrant colors, signaling a promising fruit season ahead. Local producers hope the early bloom will lead to a strong harvest, while tourists and photographers flock to witness the stunning floral display.


Belgium's Pear Heartland Bursts Into Bloom | Fruit Region Sees Early Bloom

A Belgian court has ordered 93-year-old former diplomat Étienne Davignon to stand trial over alleged involvement in the 1961 killing of Congo’s first Prime Minister, Patrice Lumumba.

Davignon, the only surviving suspect among a group of Belgian officials accused by Lumumba’s family, faces charges of participation in war crimes. Prosecutors say the case relates to Lumumba’s unlawful detention, transfer, and treatment before his killing.

Lumumba, a key figure in Congo’s independence from Belgium, was killed in January 1961 at the age of 35 during a period of political turmoil and Cold War tensions.

A 2001 Belgian inquiry had already found the country “morally responsible” for the events surrounding his death. The upcoming trial, expected to begin if appeals fail, could mark the first criminal prosecution linked to the assassination.

Davignon has denied the charges.

Belgium Orders Trial of 93-Year-Old Over 1961 Killing of Congo PM Lumumba | WION

Belgium has filed a declaration of intervention in the International Court of Justice’s genocide case against Israel. Learn what this means for the ongoing legal proceedings and international response. 


Belgium Joins ICJ Genocide Case Against Israel, UN Confirms Intervention 

A Belgian woman tortured her husband for a year, locking him up in a dog kennel and making him clean after 60 chihuahuas, according to details shared during a court hearing. The man was forced to live in filthy conditions and clean dog faeces. Anna VDV, 47, got married in 2024 and later started regularly beating her husband. She appeared in the dock at Turnhout courthouse on Wednesday and cried as prosecutors told the court the horrifying things she did. They shared pictures of the man, who went from being "a healthy partner at the beginning of the relationship to a burned skeleton". His ordeal only ended after he managed to escape on March 18 and asked his neighbours for help.&nbsp;<h2>Anna told everyone her husband was depressed and harmed himself</h2>De Telegraaf reported that he was covered with injuries and hypothermic, leading the neighbours to inform the police. Anna tried to take control of the situation by climbing into the ambulance and telling the paramedics that her husband was depressed and had harmed himself. They noticed him tensing up in her presence and asked her to leave. The man was taken to the hospital and told them in the ambulance that he had been beaten for a month. He later revealed that the torture had gone on for a year, as his wife beat him with fists and objects until he collapsed.&nbsp;<h2>Anna locked him in a dark room and a dog kennel</h2>The court was told that their house had sixty chihuahuas and the man was forced to clean them and the premises with caustic chemicals barefoot. Anna installed cameras and kept a constant watch on him. If she saw him stop working, she would shout at him remotely. She locked her husband in a garden shed, a kennel and a dark cellar regularly, denying him food or water. When two of the dogs died, she blamed him and poured boiling water on him. This happened two weeks before he escaped. When neighbours saw his injuries, she told them he was prone to self-harm. However, the police found photos of the man in a deplorable state on Anna's phone. In one video, she was seen laughing at him as he tried to put on clothes.&nbsp;<h2>Anna's lawyer calls it ‘the least sympathetic case’</h2>The prosecutors want Anna to be jailed for at least eight years, and the victim's lawyer is seeking &nbsp;€10,000 ($11,650) in provisional damages. Even Anna's lawyer, &nbsp;Romy Geysen, can't ignore the evidence and her actions, calling it "the least sympathetic case of my entire career". Anna blamed what she did on financial problems and too many dogs. Geysen says she realises what she did was wrong, and is asking not to impose a lengthy jail term. &nbsp;

A woman in Belgium faces jail for torturing her husband for over a year. She beat him, locked him in a dark cellar and a kennel, asked him to clean the faeces of 60 dogs, denied him food and mocked him when he was in pain. Even her lawyer has no sympathy for the woman.

A Belgian woman tortured her husband for a year, locking him up in a dog kennel and making him clean after 60 chihuahuas, according to details shared during a court hearing. The man was forced to live in filthy conditions and clean dog faeces. Anna VDV, 47, got married in 2024 and later started regularly beating her husband. She appeared in the dock at Turnhout courthouse on Wednesday and cried as prosecutors told the court the horrifying things she did. They shared pictures of the man, who went from being "a healthy partner at the beginning of the relationship to a burned skeleton". His ordeal only ended after he managed to escape on March 18 and asked his neighbours for help. Anna told everyone her husband was depressed and harmed himself De Telegraaf reported that he was covered with injuries and hypothermic, leading the neighbours to inform the police. Anna tried to take control of the situation by climbing into the ambulance and telling the paramedics that her husband was depressed and had harmed himself. They noticed him tensing up in her presence and asked her to leave. The man was taken to the hospital and told them in the ambulance that he had been beaten for a month. He later revealed that the torture had gone on for a year, as his wife beat him with fists and objects until he collapsed. Anna locked him in a dark room and a dog kennel The court was told that their house had sixty chihuahuas and the man was forced to clean them and the premises with caustic chemicals barefoot. Anna installed cameras and kept a constant watch on him. If she saw him stop working, she would shout at him remotely. She locked her husband in a garden shed, a kennel and a dark cellar regularly, denying him food or water. When two of the dogs died, she blamed him and poured boiling water on him. This happened two weeks before he escaped. When neighbours saw his injuries, she told them he was prone to self-harm. However, the police found photos of the man in a deplorable state on Anna's phone. In one video, she was seen laughing at him as he tried to put on clothes. Anna's lawyer calls it ‘the least sympathetic case’ The prosecutors want Anna to be jailed for at least eight years, and the victim's lawyer is seeking €10,000 ($11,650) in provisional damages. Even Anna's lawyer, Romy Geysen, can't ignore the evidence and her actions, calling it "the least sympathetic case of my entire career". Anna blamed what she did on financial problems and too many dogs. Geysen says she realises what she did was wrong, and is asking not to impose a lengthy jail term.

A woman in Belgium faces jail for torturing her husband for over a year. She beat him, locked him in a dark cellar and a kennel, asked him to clean the faeces of 60 dogs, denied him food and mocked him when he was in pain. Even her lawyer has no sympathy for the woman.

Woman beat and mocked husband, forced to clean faeces of 60 dogs, locked him in kennel: Belgian court hears horrifying details of abuse

Unions in Belgium have launched strikes in protest against government austerity measures, with railway workers in Brussels leading the action. The strikes are part of a broader campaign by unions to oppose budget cuts that they say threaten workers’ rights and social benefits. Commuters and businesses in the region are affected as the unions demand reconsideration of austerity policies and stronger protections for employees. The situation continues to develop as negotiations between the government and union leaders unfold.

Belgium Railway Strike: Brussels Railway Workers Begin Strike Over Budget Cuts

Operations at Belgium's Brussels Airport were temporarily halted on Thursday due to a drone sighting, a spokesperson for air traffic control Skeyes said on Thursday, without specifying how many drones had been seen. Local media reported drones had been sighted in other parts of the country as well, among others at a military base.


Russia-NATO tensions: Belgium's new air security centre to counter drone threats

Russia-NATO tensions: Drone sighting halts operations at Belgium & Sweden airports

Authorities in Belgium are investigating a series of mysterious drone sightings reported across several regions, sparking concerns about possible espionage or surveillance activity. The unexplained flights have raised national security questions, with experts warning that foreign actors could be testing new reconnaissance technologies.


Mysterious Drone Sightings Over Belgium Reported: Are They Being Used For Spying?

Belgium’s security forces and air defense systems are on high alert after mysterious drones repeatedly entered restricted airspace. Despite deploying helicopters and advanced drone jammers, the unidentified drones remain untracked and unclaimed, raising major national security concerns.

Belgium: Helicopters & Drone Jammers Fail to Intercept Mysterious Drones | WION 

#Gravitas Belgium is reportedly sliding towards becoming a narco-state, as powerful drug cartels infiltrate the police, judiciary, and political system. An anonymous investigating judge in Antwerp has issued a chilling warning through an open letter on Belgium’s official judiciary website, alleging deep corruption and criminal influence at every level. The revelation raises fears that Europe’s key port hub could be losing its battle against organised crime.

Belgium On The Brink Of A ‘Narco State’ As Drug Cartels Infiltrate Police And Judiciary

In a one-of-a-kind event, Belgians took to the water in hollowed-out pumpkin boats to compete in a 100m relay race. The annual tradition draws crowds and showcases creativity, fun, and teamwork on the water!

Belgians Race Pumpkin Boats in 100m Relay In a Unique Water Contest

Fugitive diamond trader Mehul Choksi, a key accused in the multi-billion dollar PNB scam, has suffered yet another legal blow. A Belgian court has once again rejected his bail plea, just ahead of a crucial extradition hearing.


India submits photos of barrack no. 12 at Mumbai’s Arthur Road jail 

In a major boost to the efforts to bring back fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, a court in Antwerp, Belgium rejected his appeal against extradition, bringing India closer to secure his return.


Mehul Choksi extradition: Belgian court says 'no obstacle' in sending him back to India

In a major blow to fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, the Antwerp Court of Appeal has approved the execution of two Indian arrest warrants, paving the way for his potential extradition to face trial in the multi-billion-dollar Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case, the Belgian authorities confirmed to WION. The decision, delivered by the ‘Kamer van Inbeschuldigingstelling’ (Chamber of Accusation) on October 17, 2025, overturns Choksi’s appeal against a lower court ruling from November 29, 2024.The court evaluated India’s extradition request through a six-step legal framework, confirming a valid treaty between Belgium and India, Choksi’s status as a foreign national, and the applicability of dual criminality for most charges. The Indian warrants, issued by a Mumbai Special Judge on May 23, 2018, and June 15, 2021, accuse Choksi of serious offences, including criminal conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, forgery, and embezzlement—crimes punishable under Belgian law with imprisonment exceeding one year. The court also ruled out any statute of limitations, either in Belgium or India, clearing legal hurdles for extradition.However, the court rejected one charge—tampering or destroying evidence—from the 2021 warrant, citing a lack of equivalent offence under Belgian law, thus failing the principle of reciprocity.The businessman, accused of defrauding PNB of over Rs 13,000 crore, fled India in January 2018 and acquired Antiguian citizenship. His dramatic disappearance from Antigua in 2021 and subsequent capture in Dominica had stalled earlier extradition efforts.With the Antwerp ruling, India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inches closer to bringing Choksi to justice. He has 15 days to appeal to Belgium’s Court of Cassation on legal grounds, but no filing has been reported yet.

The businessman, accused of defrauding PNB of over Rs 13,000 crore, fled India in January 2018 and acquired Antiguian citizenship.

In a major blow to fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, the Antwerp Court of Appeal has approved the execution of two Indian arrest warrants, paving the way for his potential extradition to face trial in the multi-billion-dollar Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case, the Belgian authorities confirmed to WION. The decision, delivered by the ‘Kamer van Inbeschuldigingstelling’ (Chamber of Accusation) on October 17, 2025, overturns Choksi’s appeal against a lower court ruling from November 29, 2024. The court evaluated India’s extradition request through a six-step legal framework, confirming a valid treaty between Belgium and India, Choksi’s status as a foreign national, and the applicability of dual criminality for most charges. The Indian warrants, issued by a Mumbai Special Judge on May 23, 2018, and June 15, 2021, accuse Choksi of serious offences, including criminal conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, forgery, and embezzlement—crimes punishable under Belgian law with imprisonment exceeding one year. The court also ruled out any statute of limitations, either in Belgium or India, clearing legal hurdles for extradition. However, the court rejected one charge—tampering or destroying evidence—from the 2021 warrant, citing a lack of equivalent offence under Belgian law, thus failing the principle of reciprocity. The businessman, accused of defrauding PNB of over Rs 13,000 crore, fled India in January 2018 and acquired Antiguian citizenship. His dramatic disappearance from Antigua in 2021 and subsequent capture in Dominica had stalled earlier extradition efforts. With the Antwerp ruling, India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inches closer to bringing Choksi to justice. He has 15 days to appeal to Belgium’s Court of Cassation on legal grounds, but no filing has been reported yet.

The businessman, accused of defrauding PNB of over Rs 13,000 crore, fled India in January 2018 and acquired Antiguian citizenship.

Antwerp Court greenlights Mehul Choksi’s extradition to India

The order has come as a strong validation for India's case seeking his extradition, with Choksi having the option of appealing against the decision in a superior court in Belgium.


Breaking: Belgium court orders fugitive diamond trader's extradition

Fugitive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mehul-choksi">Mehul Choksi</a> has filed a fresh plea before the Belgian Court of Appeal, in an attempt to prevent extradition to India. He also claimed Belgian authorities are violating the principles of natural justice.
In his new plea, Choksi alleged that Belgian authorities did not adhere to prescribed legal procedures when he was arrested, news agency ANI reported. His latest appeal was submitted by his Belgian legal team and drafted by Advocate Vijay Aggarwal.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-government-rekha-gupta-cracks-down-on-fee-hikes-in-schools-delhi-school-education-transparency-in-fixation-and-regulation-of-fees-bill-2025-9014911">'Parents are not ATMs': Delhi cracks down on fee hikes in schools - Here's what the new 'Education Transparency' bill means</a>
He further argued that the authorities not only disregarded due process but also violated his fundamental rights, breaking the principles of natural justice.
The diamond merchant has demanded his immediate release, citing irregularities in the arrest procedures. This comes just days after the Belgian Court of Appeal rejected his bail plea.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/be-indians-first-disassociate-from-terrorists-rss-advises-kashmiris-condemns-pahalgam-attack-9015318">&lsquo;Be Indians first, disassociate from terrorists&rsquo;: RSS leader advises Kashmiris, condemns Pahalgam attack</a>
In his second plea, Choksi claimed that his arrest was arbitrary and unlawful. Last week, the court rejected his plea seeking bail.
Choksi is the prime accused in a Rs 13,500 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) loan fraud case, along with his nephew, Nirav Modi. He was arrested in Belgium earlier this month after an extradition request was made by the Indian authorities over the scam.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-canada-bound-by-shared-democratic-values-pm-modi-congratulates-mark-carney-on-election-win-9014993">'India, Canada bound by shared democratic values'; PM Modi congratulates Mark Carney on election win</a>
<h2>Legal team &lsquo;Will submit a fresh bail plea&rsquo;</h2>
Choksi&rsquo;s lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, told ANI that he was disappointed with the court&rsquo;s decision but noted that Belgian law allows for multiple bail applications.
&ldquo;Unfortunately, my client has been denied bail today. However, in Belgium, we can apply for bail as many times as needed. We will carefully consider the court's observations and submit a fresh bail plea on new grounds soon,&rdquo; he said.
Watch | J&amp;K Govt orders temporary closure of 48 tourist destinations amid search operations
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2904_WION_CLOSE_12PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2904_WION_CLOSE_12PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=68&amp;tags=pahalgam, india, j&amp;K, terror attack" title="J&amp;K Govt orders temporary closure of 48 tourist destinations amid search operations" id="PL_iframe_block-ma2lnfzs-ftbvo5l9-3bd0ytu1"></iframe>
He also reiterated that Choksi&rsquo;s legal team will contest the fugitive&rsquo;s extradition mainly on two grounds &ndash; the political nature of the case and his medical condition and treatment in India. Earlier, he said that Choksi has cooperated with Indian investigation agencies and consistently offered to join the probe through video conferencing, given his health issues.
Aggarwal noted that earlier attempts to extradite the diamond merchant from Dominica had failed. He added that Choksi had been receiving treatment in Antigua, after which he travelled to Belgium for cancer care.

The diamond merchant has demanded his immediate release, citing irregularities in the arrest procedures. This comes just days after the Belgian Court of Appeal rejected his bail plea. India news | Trending

Fugitive Mehul Choksi has filed a fresh plea before the Belgian Court of Appeal, in an attempt to prevent extradition to India. He also claimed Belgian authorities are violating the principles of natural justice. In his new plea, Choksi alleged that Belgian authorities did not adhere to prescribed legal procedures when he was arrested, news agency ANI reported. His latest appeal was submitted by his Belgian legal team and drafted by Advocate Vijay Aggarwal. Also read | 'Parents are not ATMs': Delhi cracks down on fee hikes in schools - Here's what the new 'Education Transparency' bill means He further argued that the authorities not only disregarded due process but also violated his fundamental rights, breaking the principles of natural justice. The diamond merchant has demanded his immediate release, citing irregularities in the arrest procedures. This comes just days after the Belgian Court of Appeal rejected his bail plea. Also read | ‘Be Indians first, disassociate from terrorists’: RSS leader advises Kashmiris, condemns Pahalgam attack In his second plea, Choksi claimed that his arrest was arbitrary and unlawful. Last week, the court rejected his plea seeking bail. Choksi is the prime accused in a Rs 13,500 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) loan fraud case, along with his nephew, Nirav Modi. He was arrested in Belgium earlier this month after an extradition request was made by the Indian authorities over the scam. Also read | 'India, Canada bound by shared democratic values'; PM Modi congratulates Mark Carney on election win Legal team ‘Will submit a fresh bail plea’ Choksi’s lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, told ANI that he was disappointed with the court’s decision but noted that Belgian law allows for multiple bail applications. “Unfortunately, my client has been denied bail today. However, in Belgium, we can apply for bail as many times as needed. We will carefully consider the court's observations and submit a fresh bail plea on new grounds soon,” he said. Watch | J&K Govt orders temporary closure of 48 tourist destinations amid search operations He also reiterated that Choksi’s legal team will contest the fugitive’s extradition mainly on two grounds – the political nature of the case and his medical condition and treatment in India. Earlier, he said that Choksi has cooperated with Indian investigation agencies and consistently offered to join the probe through video conferencing, given his health issues. Aggarwal noted that earlier attempts to extradite the diamond merchant from Dominica had failed. He added that Choksi had been receiving treatment in Antigua, after which he travelled to Belgium for cancer care.

Mehul Choksi alleges violation of natural justice by Belgian authorities, files fresh plea

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi has filed a "freedom request" after being arrested in Belgium, citing serious health issues, including cancer. His lawyer argues he is not a flight risk. Meanwhile, the ED has contacted 10 countries to confiscate Choksi's foreign assets as the investigation deepens.

Fugitive Mehul Choksi files freedom request after arrest in Belgium

Fugitive Mehul Choksi seeks freedom amid cancer treatment plea

#GRAVITAS | Fugitive diamond jeweller Mehul Choksi has been arrested in Antwerp Belgium. Belgian police has confirmed the news to Wion. The legal process is underway for his extradition to India, following a formal extradition request filed by Indian enforcement agencies. Watch this video to find out more.

Choksi is key accused in $1.5 bn Punjab National Bank fraud case

Belgium has confirmed that Indian fugitive Mehul Choksi was arrested by law enforcement on Saturday (Apr 12) for being involved in fraudulent activities. However, extraditing the fugitive diamond merchant may not be as simple for India.
The 65-year-old has been wanted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) in India since 2018. He had allegedly defrauded Punjab National Bank (PNB) of Rs 13,850 crore.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-belgium-confirms-mehul-choksis-arrest-indian-extradition-request-8960987">Exclusive: Belgium confirms Mehul Choksi's arrest, Indian extradition request</a>
<h2>&lsquo;Extradition is not an easy task&rsquo;</h2>
Fugitive Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium. How long can his extradition take?
&ldquo;Extradition is not an easy task. Choksi's wallet is full, and he will employ the best lawyers in Europe to avoid the process like what Vijay Maliya has been doing. I don't think it is going to be easy for India to get him back,&rdquo; he said as quoted by ANI.
&ldquo;When he was caught in Antigua (Dominica) and other islands, he could manage to get out of it because he has a fleet of lawyers. But I wish and hope that this time, the Indian government will succeed,&rdquo; he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/had-to-happen-former-law-minister-ravi-shankar-prasad-on-mehul-choksis-arrest-8960293">'Had to happen': Former law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Mehul Choksi's arrest</a>
Former diplomat KP Fabian said while India can request extradition, the final decision was up to the Belgian government. Choksi can also challenge the extradition and make an appeal in court.
&ldquo;It will be great if it can be done, but again, Rana, how many years has he taken us? When was 26/11, 2008. And we got him in 2025. So, all these, all the extradition proceedings will take time. But there can be obstacles,&rdquo; he said. He added that an Interpol Red Corner Notice for the diamond merchant had been withdrawn in 2023, likely because it was not working.
&ldquo;Well, I'll put it this way: India wants him extradited, and Belgium has to take the decision. Now, even the Belgium Internal affairs and the foreign affairs, take that decision. Choksi has the option of going to court in Belgium. And then there can be arguments, pros and cons,&rdquo; he said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/major-ground-for-plea-is-his-ill-health-mehul-choksis-legal-team-to-file-appeal-for-his-release-8959858">'Major ground for plea is his ill health': Mehul Choksi's legal team to file appeal for his release</a>
He added, &ldquo;We can&rsquo;t jump to the conclusion that tomorrow or day after Belgium is going to extradite him because there is a legal process, even if the Belgian government decides, he can go to court. So, whether eventually he'll be extradited or not at this moment we can't say, but obviously we should try hard, as hard as necessary to get him.&rdquo;
<h2>What did Choksi&rsquo;s lawyer say?</h2>
Following his arrest, Mehul Choksi&rsquo;s lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, said that if the businessman were to be extradited, his human rights would be &ldquo;greatly affected.&rdquo;
His team would challenge any attempt to extradite him, he said during a press conference on Monday (Apr 14).
&ldquo;Basically, we will be defending it on two grounds. It is a political case, and secondly, it is because of the human rights conditions in India,&rdquo; he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-most-important-thing-is-pnb-scam-whistle-blower-on-mehul-choksi-arrest-in-belgium-8959547">'The most important thing is...': PNB Scam whistle-blower on Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium</a>
&ldquo;We have always maintained in the entire court that he is ready to join, but because of his medical condition, he cannot travel. That is why we initially maintained that the Indian agency could investigate, and he will join on VC (video conference). That is why, to date, everyone has been declared a fugitive, but Mehul Choksi is not a fugitive. Our case has been going on for years now,&rdquo; Aggarwal said.
Talking about Choksi's health condition, he said, &ldquo;He is extremely sick. He is undergoing treatment for cancer, and the last time he was picked up from Antigua by the Indian agencies, because of the torture, he was feeling very claustrophobic and had got some permanent deformities, as well as suffering from PTSD.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

According to Hariprasad, one of the complainants in a case against Mehul Choksi, extradition would be difficult as the accused businessman had a fleet of lawyers, who earlier allowed him to evade the law. India news

Belgium has confirmed that Indian fugitive Mehul Choksi was arrested by law enforcement on Saturday (Apr 12) for being involved in fraudulent activities. However, extraditing the fugitive diamond merchant may not be as simple for India. The 65-year-old has been wanted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) in India since 2018. He had allegedly defrauded Punjab National Bank (PNB) of Rs 13,850 crore. Also read | Exclusive: Belgium confirms Mehul Choksi's arrest, Indian extradition request ‘Extradition is not an easy task’ Fugitive Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium. How long can his extradition take? “Extradition is not an easy task. Choksi's wallet is full, and he will employ the best lawyers in Europe to avoid the process like what Vijay Maliya has been doing. I don't think it is going to be easy for India to get him back,” he said as quoted by ANI. “When he was caught in Antigua (Dominica) and other islands, he could manage to get out of it because he has a fleet of lawyers. But I wish and hope that this time, the Indian government will succeed,” he added. Also read | 'Had to happen': Former law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Mehul Choksi's arrest Former diplomat KP Fabian said while India can request extradition, the final decision was up to the Belgian government. Choksi can also challenge the extradition and make an appeal in court. “It will be great if it can be done, but again, Rana, how many years has he taken us? When was 26/11, 2008. And we got him in 2025. So, all these, all the extradition proceedings will take time. But there can be obstacles,” he said. He added that an Interpol Red Corner Notice for the diamond merchant had been withdrawn in 2023, likely because it was not working. “Well, I'll put it this way: India wants him extradited, and Belgium has to take the decision. Now, even the Belgium Internal affairs and the foreign affairs, take that decision. Choksi has the option of going to court in Belgium. And then there can be arguments, pros and cons,” he said. Also read | 'Major ground for plea is his ill health': Mehul Choksi's legal team to file appeal for his release He added, “We can’t jump to the conclusion that tomorrow or day after Belgium is going to extradite him because there is a legal process, even if the Belgian government decides, he can go to court. So, whether eventually he'll be extradited or not at this moment we can't say, but obviously we should try hard, as hard as necessary to get him.” What did Choksi’s lawyer say? Following his arrest, Mehul Choksi’s lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, said that if the businessman were to be extradited, his human rights would be “greatly affected.” His team would challenge any attempt to extradite him, he said during a press conference on Monday (Apr 14). “Basically, we will be defending it on two grounds. It is a political case, and secondly, it is because of the human rights conditions in India,” he added. Also read | 'The most important thing is...': PNB Scam whistle-blower on Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium “We have always maintained in the entire court that he is ready to join, but because of his medical condition, he cannot travel. That is why we initially maintained that the Indian agency could investigate, and he will join on VC (video conference). That is why, to date, everyone has been declared a fugitive, but Mehul Choksi is not a fugitive. Our case has been going on for years now,” Aggarwal said. Talking about Choksi's health condition, he said, “He is extremely sick. He is undergoing treatment for cancer, and the last time he was picked up from Antigua by the Indian agencies, because of the torture, he was feeling very claustrophobic and had got some permanent deformities, as well as suffering from PTSD.” (With inputs from agencies)

Fugitive Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium. How long can his extradition take?

Indian authorities have reportedly urged Belgium to initiate fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi's extradition to India. This after reports surfaced that he, along with his wife Priti Choksi was residing in Antwerp. Watch in for more details!

Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium, faces extradition to India

Two Billion Dollar PNB Fraud Accused Mehul Choksi Arrested

Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium, India seeks extradition

India: PNB fraud accused Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium

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