Former minister of law and justice and BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad said the arrest of fugitive businessman Mehul Choski "had to happen".&nbsp;
While talking to reporters in Biahr's Patna, Prasad said, "We came here to attend the program held on the occasion of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar's birth anniversary. I pay my respects to the architect of the Constitution, who inspires people even today. Mehul Choksi arrest had to happen. PM Narendra Modi's government does not spare anyone," news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mehul-choksi-how-a-diamond-tycoon-became-a-wanted-fugitive-the-rise-and-ruin-of-business-magnate-wion-explains-8959491">Mehul Choksi: How a diamond tycoon became a wanted fugitive? The rise and ruin of the business magnate | WION Explains</a>
Choksi was arrested in Belgium on Saturday (April 12) after India's demand for his extradition.&nbsp;
After the arrest, Vaibhav Khuraniya, one of the complainants in a fraud case against Choksi, said that it may not be easy to bring the business magnet back to India due to legal complexities involved in extradition.&nbsp;
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>
"I just hope, although I don't think it's going to work out. Since they couldn't get Vijay Mallya for so long, I don't think he can be brought back to India so easily because there are so many legalities which are involved. I suppose he has carried this kind of fraud across the world. He has been selling very low-quality diamonds at exceptionally high rates. That's probably why even Nirav Modi is in jail," Khuraniya told news agency ANI.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-businessman-mehul-choksi-accused-of-defrauding-pnb-bank-living-in-belgium-report-8881635">Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, India demands extradition: Report</a>
"Only after he comes back to India will I be more hopeful than him being arrested there," he added.
In 2016, an FIR was filed against Choksi based on the complaint of Khuraniya.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, businessman Robert Vadra says, "It is a very big thing for the country. Arresting is a different thing, but it is important that the money of the people who have been should be recovered, and the government should think about it. Nirav Modi and other people should also be brought back, and the government should ensure that the losses of the people are taken care of by the government..." ANI reported.&nbsp;
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>
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Former minister of law and justice and BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad said the arrest of fugitive businessman Mehul Choski "had to happen".

Former minister of law and justice and BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad said the arrest of fugitive businessman Mehul Choski "had to happen". While talking to reporters in Biahr's Patna, Prasad said, "We came here to attend the program held on the occasion of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar's birth anniversary. I pay my respects to the architect of the Constitution, who inspires people even today. Mehul Choksi arrest had to happen. PM Narendra Modi's government does not spare anyone," news agency ANI reported. Also read: Mehul Choksi: How a diamond tycoon became a wanted fugitive? The rise and ruin of the business magnate | WION Explains Choksi was arrested in Belgium on Saturday (April 12) after India's demand for his extradition. After the arrest, Vaibhav Khuraniya, one of the complainants in a fraud case against Choksi, said that it may not be easy to bring the business magnet back to India due to legal complexities involved in extradition. Also read: 'The most important thing is...': PNB Scam whistle-blower on Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium "I just hope, although I don't think it's going to work out. Since they couldn't get Vijay Mallya for so long, I don't think he can be brought back to India so easily because there are so many legalities which are involved. I suppose he has carried this kind of fraud across the world. He has been selling very low-quality diamonds at exceptionally high rates. That's probably why even Nirav Modi is in jail," Khuraniya told news agency ANI. Also read: Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, India demands extradition: Report "Only after he comes back to India will I be more hopeful than him being arrested there," he added. In 2016, an FIR was filed against Choksi based on the complaint of Khuraniya. Meanwhile, businessman Robert Vadra says, "It is a very big thing for the country. Arresting is a different thing, but it is important that the money of the people who have been should be recovered, and the government should think about it. Nirav Modi and other people should also be brought back, and the government should ensure that the losses of the people are taken care of by the government..." ANI reported. Also read: 'Major ground for plea is his ill health': Mehul Choksi's legal team to file appeal for his release (With inputs from agencies)

'Had to happen': Former law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Mehul Choksi's arrest

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!

India: PNB fraud accused Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium

Mehul Coksi - the fugitive Indian businessman has been arrested in Belgium after India's extradition request for his role in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case of more than ₹13,0000 million ($15,11,621.76). The arrest of the diamond merchant came weeks after the reports that he was staying in Belgium with his wife. He allegedly obtained the residency in Belgium and a residency card in 2023 with the help of his wife.&nbsp;
The media outlet revealed that Choksi doctored his legal documents with the help of his wife, who is a citizen of Belgium, and mispresented his nationality.&nbsp;
But how did a businessman who inherited his father&rsquo;s small jewellery business and transformed it into an empire become a wanted criminal? Here's the story.&nbsp;
<h2>The beginning&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fugitive-businessman-mehul-choksi-arrested-in-belgium-8959137">Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium on India's extradition request</a>
Mehul Choksi was born in May 1959 in India's Mumbai. His father, Chinubhai Choksi, owned a small jewellery business named Gitanjali Jewelers, which later became the Gitanjali Groups - one of India's largest jewellery brands. Mehul Choksi expanded the brand and ended up opening as many as 4,000 retail stores across India. The brand started witnessing a booming international presence under Mehul's leadership.&nbsp;
Post his success, he became a familiar name when it came to mingling with celebrities and sponsoring Bollywood shows.&nbsp;
But things were not as good as they seemed. Behind this glamorous life, Choksi was spinning a financial web, one of the darkest frauds of India.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-businessman-mehul-choksi-accused-of-defrauding-pnb-bank-living-in-belgium-report-8881635">Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, India demands extradition: Report</a>
<h2>The great Indian bank heist</h2>
The year was 2018. India witnessed a massive shock when reports came that one of India's oldest lenders, PNB, had fallen into a fraud, as big as ₹13,500 crore (Over $15,11,621.76). Investigations revealed that Mehul Choksi, along with his nephew Nirav Modi, had siphoned off the money using fraudulently obtained Letters of Undertaking (LoUs) without proper collateral or security.
This was not an ordinary fraud that took place in a week or month. Choksi spent good 3 years (2014 - 2017) to plan and execute the fraud, bit by bit.&nbsp;
<h2>The escape act</h2>
Fearing a crackdown, Choksi ran from India in early 2018. It was a few weeks before the scam was unveiled. He landed in Antigua and Barbuda, secured citizenship using his best skill - fraud. In late May 2025, reports came that he was living in Belgium with his wife.&nbsp;
<h2>India's response</h2>
India's investigating agencies - CBI and ED - filed multiple cases against the fugitive businessman. Choksi's Indian passport was revoked. A Red Corner Notice (an alert issued at the request of a member country to locate and provisionally arrest individuals wanted for prosecution or to serve a sentence for serious crimes) was also issued against him via Interpol.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-mallya-nirav-modi-mehul-choksi-major-asset-recovery-nirmala-sitharaman-praises-eds-efforts-784910">Sitharaman lauds ED&rsquo;s efforts in recovering assets from Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi</a>
But India failed in securing his extradition. Choksi cried foul, claiming political persecution and human rights violations. But India did not call it quits.&nbsp;
<h2>The Dominica drama</h2>
In 2021, Choksi mysteriously vanished from Antigua and turned up in Dominica. He accused Indian agents of kidnapping him. The claim was as eyebrow-raising as it sounds.&nbsp;
India swiftly reacted as the country sent legal teams to Dominica to get Choksi's extradition. But the criminal escaped and returned to Antigua on medical grounds.&nbsp;
<h2>Breakthrough in Belgium</h2>
In one of the biggest breakthroughs of India, Choksi was arrested on Saturday (April 12) in Belgium. Living under the radar with his wife in Antwerp, he was reportedly preparing to shift to Switzerland for medical treatment when Belgian authorities detained him. This was after India's demand to extradite him.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/court-lambasts-probe-agencies-blames-it-for-fugitives-nirav-modi-mehul-choksi-and-vijay-mallya-fleeing-india-728298">Court lambasts probe agency, blames it for Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and Vijay Mallya fleeing India</a>
<h2>What lies ahead?&nbsp;</h2>
Indian legal teams are preparing to present strong evidence to Belgian courts. Although Choksi is likely to contest his extradition, citing health and human rights, India&rsquo;s documented history of legal proceedings, charge sheets, and red notices may prevail.
(With inputs from agencies)

Business & Economy | India News | The arrest of the diamond merchant came weeks after the reports that he was staying in Belgium with his wife. He allegedly obtained the residency in Belgium and a residency card in 2023 with the help of his wife.

Mehul Coksi - the fugitive Indian businessman has been arrested in Belgium after India's extradition request for his role in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case of more than ₹13,0000 million ($15,11,621.76). The arrest of the diamond merchant came weeks after the reports that he was staying in Belgium with his wife. He allegedly obtained the residency in Belgium and a residency card in 2023 with the help of his wife. The media outlet revealed that Choksi doctored his legal documents with the help of his wife, who is a citizen of Belgium, and mispresented his nationality. But how did a businessman who inherited his father’s small jewellery business and transformed it into an empire become a wanted criminal? Here's the story. The beginning Also read: Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium on India's extradition request Mehul Choksi was born in May 1959 in India's Mumbai. His father, Chinubhai Choksi, owned a small jewellery business named Gitanjali Jewelers, which later became the Gitanjali Groups - one of India's largest jewellery brands. Mehul Choksi expanded the brand and ended up opening as many as 4,000 retail stores across India. The brand started witnessing a booming international presence under Mehul's leadership. Post his success, he became a familiar name when it came to mingling with celebrities and sponsoring Bollywood shows. But things were not as good as they seemed. Behind this glamorous life, Choksi was spinning a financial web, one of the darkest frauds of India. Also read: Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, India demands extradition: Report The great Indian bank heist The year was 2018. India witnessed a massive shock when reports came that one of India's oldest lenders, PNB, had fallen into a fraud, as big as ₹13,500 crore (Over $15,11,621.76). Investigations revealed that Mehul Choksi, along with his nephew Nirav Modi, had siphoned off the money using fraudulently obtained Letters of Undertaking (LoUs) without proper collateral or security. This was not an ordinary fraud that took place in a week or month. Choksi spent good 3 years (2014 - 2017) to plan and execute the fraud, bit by bit. The escape act Fearing a crackdown, Choksi ran from India in early 2018. It was a few weeks before the scam was unveiled. He landed in Antigua and Barbuda, secured citizenship using his best skill - fraud. In late May 2025, reports came that he was living in Belgium with his wife. India's response India's investigating agencies - CBI and ED - filed multiple cases against the fugitive businessman. Choksi's Indian passport was revoked. A Red Corner Notice (an alert issued at the request of a member country to locate and provisionally arrest individuals wanted for prosecution or to serve a sentence for serious crimes) was also issued against him via Interpol. Also read: Sitharaman lauds ED’s efforts in recovering assets from Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi But India failed in securing his extradition. Choksi cried foul, claiming political persecution and human rights violations. But India did not call it quits. The Dominica drama In 2021, Choksi mysteriously vanished from Antigua and turned up in Dominica. He accused Indian agents of kidnapping him. The claim was as eyebrow-raising as it sounds. India swiftly reacted as the country sent legal teams to Dominica to get Choksi's extradition. But the criminal escaped and returned to Antigua on medical grounds. Breakthrough in Belgium In one of the biggest breakthroughs of India, Choksi was arrested on Saturday (April 12) in Belgium. Living under the radar with his wife in Antwerp, he was reportedly preparing to shift to Switzerland for medical treatment when Belgian authorities detained him. This was after India's demand to extradite him. Also read: Court lambasts probe agency, blames it for Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and Vijay Mallya fleeing India What lies ahead? Indian legal teams are preparing to present strong evidence to Belgian courts. Although Choksi is likely to contest his extradition, citing health and human rights, India’s documented history of legal proceedings, charge sheets, and red notices may prevail. (With inputs from agencies)

Mehul Choksi: How a diamond tycoon became a wanted fugitive. The rise and ruin of the business magnate | WION Explains

The Belgium foreign ministry has said that it is aware of the Mehul Choksi case and "attaches great importance and attention to it". This is the first ever comment by Belgium government on the Choksi who is reportedly living in Antwerp, Belgium, and had left Antigua and Barbuda.&nbsp;
In response to a WION question, Belgium Foreign ministry spokesperson David Jordens on Mehul Choksi said, "we do not comment on individual cases. Furthermore, this case falls under the competence of the Federal Public Service Justice. The FPS Foreign Affairs continues to closely follow the developments in this important case."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-businessman-mehul-choksi-accused-of-defrauding-pnb-bank-living-in-belgium-report-8881635">Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, India demands extradition: Report</a>
Mehul Choksi is a fugitive businessman, born in India and wanted in connection with a ₹13,500-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case. According to Caribbean media reports, he has been residing there with his wife, Preeti Choksi, a Belgian citizen, after obtaining an "F Residency Card". Indian authorities have initiated contact with Belgian counterparts to pursue his extradition to India, where he faces charges of criminal conspiracy, money laundering, and fraud alongside his nephew, Nirav Modi.
Choksi fled India in January 2018, just before the scam came to light, and has since evaded Indian authorities. He obtained citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 through their Citizenship by Investment Program and lived there after leaving India. He has been wanted by Indian judicial authorities for charges including cheating, corruption, and money laundering.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-mallya-nirav-modi-mehul-choksi-major-asset-recovery-nirmala-sitharaman-praises-eds-efforts-784910">Sitharaman lauds ED&rsquo;s efforts in recovering assets from Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi</a>
Last week, speaking to WION, Antigua and Barbuda foreign minister Chet Greene said that his country will assist India in the legal process regarding Choksi. He said, "'we are country of laws, his citizenship is challenged by Indian govt. It is legal process. It is country laws. We will not interfere . Will assist in ensuring legal process continues".
The ED has attached assets worth ₹2,565.90 crore linked to Choksi, including properties in Mumbai, jewelry, and stakes in offshore firms. A Mumbai PMLA court&rsquo;s December 2024 ruling gave a go ahead to their sale, with proceeds earmarked for PNB and ICICI Bank, which suffered losses of ₹872 crore from Choksi&rsquo;s firms.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kunal-kamra-chose-satire-to-respond-to-agitated-shiv-sena-workers-eknath-shinde-8890512">Kunal Kamra shares another song in response to Shiv Sena workers' vandalism - WATCH</a>

World: This is the first ever comment by Belgium government on the Choksi who is reportedly living in Antwerp, Belgium, and had left Antigua and Barbuda. India news

The Belgium foreign ministry has said that it is aware of the Mehul Choksi case and "attaches great importance and attention to it". This is the first ever comment by Belgium government on the Choksi who is reportedly living in Antwerp, Belgium, and had left Antigua and Barbuda. In response to a WION question, Belgium Foreign ministry spokesperson David Jordens on Mehul Choksi said, "we do not comment on individual cases. Furthermore, this case falls under the competence of the Federal Public Service Justice. The FPS Foreign Affairs continues to closely follow the developments in this important case." Also read: Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, India demands extradition: Report Mehul Choksi is a fugitive businessman, born in India and wanted in connection with a ₹13,500-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case. According to Caribbean media reports, he has been residing there with his wife, Preeti Choksi, a Belgian citizen, after obtaining an "F Residency Card". Indian authorities have initiated contact with Belgian counterparts to pursue his extradition to India, where he faces charges of criminal conspiracy, money laundering, and fraud alongside his nephew, Nirav Modi. Choksi fled India in January 2018, just before the scam came to light, and has since evaded Indian authorities. He obtained citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 through their Citizenship by Investment Program and lived there after leaving India. He has been wanted by Indian judicial authorities for charges including cheating, corruption, and money laundering. Also read: Sitharaman lauds ED’s efforts in recovering assets from Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi Last week, speaking to WION, Antigua and Barbuda foreign minister Chet Greene said that his country will assist India in the legal process regarding Choksi. He said, "'we are country of laws, his citizenship is challenged by Indian govt. It is legal process. It is country laws. We will not interfere . Will assist in ensuring legal process continues". The ED has attached assets worth ₹2,565.90 crore linked to Choksi, including properties in Mumbai, jewelry, and stakes in offshore firms. A Mumbai PMLA court’s December 2024 ruling gave a go ahead to their sale, with proceeds earmarked for PNB and ICICI Bank, which suffered losses of ₹872 crore from Choksi’s firms. Also read: Kunal Kamra shares another song in response to Shiv Sena workers' vandalism - WATCH

Aware of the case: Belgium on fugitive Mehul Choksi

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, says reports

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi, wanted in the $2 billion PNB fraud case, is reportedly living in Belgium. India had earlier sought his extradition from Antigua, but authorities now claim he is no longer on the island. Antigua and Barbuda have pledged to assist India in the legal process, while reports suggest Choksi may be planning to move to Switzerland.

Fugitive Mehul Choksi reportedly living in Belgium amid extradition battle

New Delhi, India 
<meta charset="utf-8"/><meta content="uuidy3dPBhQgTxZg" name="uuid"/>
Indian finance minister Sitharaman said that the total assets worth Rs 22,280 crore have been recovered and returned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to public and private banks and deceived investors. This shows the determination of the government in tackling financial crimes and misdirected money.
In Lok Sabha's discussion over Supplementary Demands for Grants, Sitharaman called up the ED's work opening, blaming no one and saying, “We haven’t spared anyone, even those who fled the country. The ED has worked to ensure that money rightfully belonging to banks and investors is recovered and returned.”
<h2>Major asset recoveries by the ED</h2>
Among the high-profile cases, the ED has seized assets worth:
&gt;Rs 14,131.6 crore from the fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya, which has been returned to the public sector banks.
&gt;Rs 1,052.58 crore from Nirav Modi, which was given to public and private banks.
&gt;Rs. 2,565.90 crore from Mehul Choksi, plans to auction these assets. 
&gt;In addition, assets of Rs 17.47 crore recovered from the NSEL scam have been returned to defrauded investors.
Sitharaman, giving the last word on the government's position, said, “We are after them. We will ensure that stolen assets are recovered and returned to their rightful owners, including banks and investors.”
<h2>Impact of the black money act</h2>
The Black Money Act passed in 2015 proved very effective in discovering undisclosed wealth. Sitharaman stressed a phenomenal increase in voluntary declaration of foreign assets by taxpayers from 60,467 in 2021-22 to more than 2 lakh in 2024-25. 
Under this act:
&gt;Demands worth Rs 17,520 crore have been raised in 697 cases.
&gt;163 prosecutions have been initiated against offenders.
Furthermore, the act has led to the detection of undisclosed income of Rs 33,393 crore across 582 cases.
<h3>High-profile investigations underway</h3>
The government looks ahead to such cases pertaining to global leaks such as the Panama Papers, Pandora Papers, HSBC, and ICIJ leaks. In order to fast-track these investigations, the MAG, or multi-agency group, has the government looking forward to cases related to global leaks such as the Panama Papers, Pandora Papers, HSBC, and ICIJ leaks. To fast-track these investigations, the MAG, or Multi-Agency Group, has been set up to ensure coordinated action by various enforcement bodies.
Until today, 120 cases related to foreign assets remain under active scrutiny.
More than Rs 22,000 crore of recovery registers on behalf of ED, which is a great consolation and a significant realization of the efficiency with which this agency has been tackling economic offences and returning wealth to the Indian economy.
(With inputs from agencies)

The ED has recovered significant assets from high-profile fugitives, including Rs 14,131.6 crore from Vijay Mallya returned to public sector banks, Rs 1,052.58 crore from Nirav Modi given back to banks, and Rs 2,565.90 crore from Mehul Choksi, with plans to auction these assets.



New Delhi, India Indian finance minister Sitharaman said that the total assets worth Rs 22,280 crore have been recovered and returned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to public and private banks and deceived investors. This shows the determination of the government in tackling financial crimes and misdirected money. In Lok Sabha's discussion over Supplementary Demands for Grants, Sitharaman called up the ED's work opening, blaming no one and saying, “We haven’t spared anyone, even those who fled the country. The ED has worked to ensure that money rightfully belonging to banks and investors is recovered and returned.” Major asset recoveries by the ED Among the high-profile cases, the ED has seized assets worth: >Rs 14,131.6 crore from the fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya, which has been returned to the public sector banks. >Rs 1,052.58 crore from Nirav Modi, which was given to public and private banks. >Rs. 2,565.90 crore from Mehul Choksi, plans to auction these assets. >In addition, assets of Rs 17.47 crore recovered from the NSEL scam have been returned to defrauded investors. Sitharaman, giving the last word on the government's position, said, “We are after them. We will ensure that stolen assets are recovered and returned to their rightful owners, including banks and investors.” Impact of the black money act The Black Money Act passed in 2015 proved very effective in discovering undisclosed wealth. Sitharaman stressed a phenomenal increase in voluntary declaration of foreign assets by taxpayers from 60,467 in 2021-22 to more than 2 lakh in 2024-25. Under this act: >Demands worth Rs 17,520 crore have been raised in 697 cases. >163 prosecutions have been initiated against offenders. Furthermore, the act has led to the detection of undisclosed income of Rs 33,393 crore across 582 cases. High-profile investigations underway The government looks ahead to such cases pertaining to global leaks such as the Panama Papers, Pandora Papers, HSBC, and ICIJ leaks. In order to fast-track these investigations, the MAG, or multi-agency group, has the government looking forward to cases related to global leaks such as the Panama Papers, Pandora Papers, HSBC, and ICIJ leaks. To fast-track these investigations, the MAG, or Multi-Agency Group, has been set up to ensure coordinated action by various enforcement bodies. Until today, 120 cases related to foreign assets remain under active scrutiny. More than Rs 22,000 crore of recovery registers on behalf of ED, which is a great consolation and a significant realization of the efficiency with which this agency has been tackling economic offences and returning wealth to the Indian economy. (With inputs from agencies)

Sitharaman lauds ED’s efforts in recovering assets from Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi

Indian finance minister Sitharaman said that the total assets worth Rs 22,280 crore have been recovered and returned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to public and private banks and deceived investors.

Indian finance minister Sitharaman said that the total assets worth Rs 22,280 crore have been recovered and returned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to public and private banks and deceived investors. This shows the determination of the government in tackling financial crimes and misdirected money. In Lok Sabha's discussion over Supplementary Demands for Grants, Sitharaman called up the ED's work opening, blaming no one and saying, “We haven’t spared anyone, even those who fled the country. The ED has worked to ensure that money rightfully belonging to banks and investors is recovered and returned.” Major asset recoveries by the ED Among the high-profile cases, the ED has seized assets worth: >Rs 14,131.6 crore from the fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya, which has been returned to the public sector banks. >Rs 1,052.58 crore from Nirav Modi, which was given to public and private banks. >Rs. 2,565.90 crore from Mehul Choksi, plans to auction these assets. >In addition, assets of Rs 17.47 crore recovered from the NSEL scam have been returned to defrauded investors. Sitharaman, giving the last word on the government's position, said, “We are after them. We will ensure that stolen assets are recovered and returned to their rightful owners, including banks and investors.” Impact of the black money act The Black Money Act passed in 2015 proved very effective in discovering undisclosed wealth. Sitharaman stressed a phenomenal increase in voluntary declaration of foreign assets by taxpayers from 60,467 in 2021-22 to more than 2 lakh in 2024-25. Under this act: >Demands worth Rs 17,520 crore have been raised in 697 cases. >163 prosecutions have been initiated against offenders. Furthermore, the act has led to the detection of undisclosed income of Rs 33,393 crore across 582 cases. High-profile investigations underway The government looks ahead to such cases pertaining to global leaks such as the Panama Papers, Pandora Papers, HSBC, and ICIJ leaks. In order to fast-track these investigations, the MAG, or multi-agency group, has the government looking forward to cases related to global leaks such as the Panama Papers, Pandora Papers, HSBC, and ICIJ leaks. To fast-track these investigations, the MAG, or Multi-Agency Group, has been set up to ensure coordinated action by various enforcement bodies. Until today, 120 cases related to foreign assets remain under active scrutiny. More than Rs 22,000 crore of recovery registers on behalf of ED, which is a great consolation and a significant realization of the efficiency with which this agency has been tackling economic offences and returning wealth to the Indian economy. (With inputs from agencies)

An Indian court on Thursday (Sept 21) dismissed pleas filed by economic offender Mehul Choksi aimed at challenging efforts of India’s top economic intelligence agency, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), to declare him a Fugitive Economic Offender (FEO).

Choksi is an accused in the PNB bank scam case, along with billionaire jeweller Nirav Modi, who is the promoter of Gitanjali Gems. Choksi and Modi have been accused of getting letters of undertaking (LoU) and foreign letters of credit (FLC) of Rs 12,636 crore issued in favour of foreign branches of Indian banks based on fraudulent claims.

It is to be noted that Modi was declared an FEO in December 2019, and now the ED is seeking to pursue a similar case against Choksi as well.

<h2>Choksi alleges procedural lapses in ED’s proceedings</h2>

Justice Sarang V Kotwal of the Bombay High Court concluded a hearing on September 11 in Choksi's pleas and reserved the order. In his pleas, Choksi alleged procedural lapses in the proceedings before the special court designated under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Watch:&nbsp;Nigeria: Indian diaspora celebrates Ganesha Chaturthi in Lagos as festival goes global

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nigeria-indian-diaspora-celebrates-ganesha-chaturthi-in-lagos-as-festival-goes-global-wion-638054/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In January 2020, the HC initially provided temporary relief to Choksi by preventing the special court from issuing a final order on the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) application to label Choksi as a Fugitive Economic Offender (FEO). This injunction was repeatedly extended until Friday.

In 2019, the ED submitted an application to the PMLA Court, seeking to declare Choksi as an FEO under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018, and seize his assets.&nbsp;

<h2>Who can be declared as FEO?</h2>

According to Indian laws, a person can be declared an FEO if a warrant is issued against them for an offence involving Rs 100 crore or more and if they have left the country and refused to return.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-nijjar-row-india-suspends-visas-for-canadians-as-tensions-rise-between-the-two-countries-638125">Also read:&nbsp;Amid Nijjar row, India suspends visas for Canadians as tensions rise between the two countries</a>

Choksi had subsequently approached the HC to challenge the ED's application, filing two petitions: one seeking the dismissal of the central agency's application and the other seeking permission to cross-examine the investigating officers and individuals whose statements the investigative agency relied upon to declare Choksi as an FEO.

<h2>ED’s argument</h2>

Last month, the agency also approached the HC to review the stay on proceedings to declare Choksi an FEO.&nbsp;

The agency argued that Choksi is accused under the PMLA Act, and prosecution against him is pending due to the HC's stay. It urged Justice Kotwal to make a final decision on the petitions promptly.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

An Indian court on Thursday (Sept 21) dismissed pleas filed by economic offender Mehul Choksi aimed at challenging efforts of India’s top economic intelligence agency, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), to declare him a Fugitive Economic Offender (FEO).

An Indian court on Thursday (Sept 21) dismissed pleas filed by economic offender Mehul Choksi aimed at challenging efforts of India’s top economic intelligence agency, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), to declare him a Fugitive Economic Offender (FEO). Choksi is an accused in the PNB bank scam case, along with billionaire jeweller Nirav Modi, who is the promoter of Gitanjali Gems. Choksi and Modi have been accused of getting letters of undertaking (LoU) and foreign letters of credit (FLC) of Rs 12,636 crore issued in favour of foreign branches of Indian banks based on fraudulent claims. It is to be noted that Modi was declared an FEO in December 2019, and now the ED is seeking to pursue a similar case against Choksi as well. Choksi alleges procedural lapses in ED’s proceedings Justice Sarang V Kotwal of the Bombay High Court concluded a hearing on September 11 in Choksi's pleas and reserved the order. In his pleas, Choksi alleged procedural lapses in the proceedings before the special court designated under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Watch: Nigeria: Indian diaspora celebrates Ganesha Chaturthi in Lagos as festival goes global × In January 2020, the HC initially provided temporary relief to Choksi by preventing the special court from issuing a final order on the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) application to label Choksi as a Fugitive Economic Offender (FEO). This injunction was repeatedly extended until Friday. In 2019, the ED submitted an application to the PMLA Court, seeking to declare Choksi as an FEO under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018, and seize his assets. Who can be declared as FEO? According to Indian laws, a person can be declared an FEO if a warrant is issued against them for an offence involving Rs 100 crore or more and if they have left the country and refused to return. Also read: Amid Nijjar row, India suspends visas for Canadians as tensions rise between the two countries Choksi had subsequently approached the HC to challenge the ED's application, filing two petitions: one seeking the dismissal of the central agency's application and the other seeking permission to cross-examine the investigating officers and individuals whose statements the investigative agency relied upon to declare Choksi as an FEO. ED’s argument Last month, the agency also approached the HC to review the stay on proceedings to declare Choksi an FEO. The agency argued that Choksi is accused under the PMLA Act, and prosecution against him is pending due to the HC's stay. It urged Justice Kotwal to make a final decision on the petitions promptly. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India: Court dismisses Mehul Choksi’s pleas against ED’s move to declare him ‘fugitive’

There is a bit of a reprieve for fugitive businessman - the High Court of Antigua and Barbuda has ruled in his favour, arguing that Choksi cannot be removed from the country's territory. Watch the video to know more.

Mehul Choksi wins case in Antigua & Barbuda, to be granted all legal options including appeals

Mehul Choksi, a diamantaire wanted in India in connection with a scam of INR 13,000 crores (Rs 130 billion), cannot be extradited, the Antigua and Barbuda High Court said on Friday.

Choksi had requested relief, including a declaration that says he is entitled to a timely and complete inquiry into the events surrounding his forceful deportation from Antigua and Barbuda on or about May 23, 2021.&nbsp;

Mehul Choksi, who is wanted in India for a Rs 13,000-crore fraud in the Punjab National Bank,&nbsp;disappeared from Antigua in May 2021 after fleeing there in 2018 to evade punishment in India for defrauding PNB&nbsp;along with his nephew, Nirav Modi. He had then claimed that he was removed from Antigua &amp; Barbuda and was forced to travel to Dominica in a boat.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-approves-electronic-enlistment-bill-clamps-down-on-russians-who-dodge-military-service-582599">Putin approves electronic call-up bill, clamps down on Russians who dodge military service</a>

Choksi argued in his civil lawsuit that the Attorney General of Antigua and the Chief of Police have a duty to conduct a thorough investigation and that he has a plausible claim that he was subjected to inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, according to Dominica-based Nature Isle News.

According to the court decision, Mehul Choksi cannot be removed from Antigua and Barbuda's territory until the High Court rules after an inter-party hearing and after Mehul Choksi has exhausted all other legal options, including appeals.

"Further or in the alternative, a Declaration that the first Defendant is to establish an independent, judicial inquiry as to the circumstances of the Claimant (Mehul Choksi)'s forcible abduction and removal from the jurisdiction of Antigua and Barbuda on or around 23 May 2021. A Declaration that the second Defendant has a duty to confirm to the Dominican police that the evidence supports that the Claimant was forcibly removed from the jurisdiction and taken to Dominica against his will," the court order read.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-leak-us-president-biden-says-probe-will-examine-why-leaker-had-classified-access-582597">Pentagon leak: US President Biden says investigation will examine why leaker had classified access</a>

"An Order that the Claimant may not be caused to leave and/or be removed from the jurisdiction of Antigua and Barbuda without an order from the High Court after an inter partes hearing and subject to the Claimant exhausting any appeals or other legal relief provided by law. An Order that the second Defendant releases the statement taken by its officers from the Claimant on 15 August 2021," it read further.

Earlier, India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in its statement said that it remains committed to returning fugitives and criminals to India to face the process of criminal justice.

"Systematic steps have been initiated in close coordination with foreign law enforcement agencies for geo-locating and return of wanted criminals and economic offenders. In the last 15 months, over 30 wanted criminals have returned to India," it read.&nbsp;

Watch | Macron's pension reform gets constitutional green light despite raging protests

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/macrons-pension-reform-gets-constitutional-green-light-despite-raging-protests-582585/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

According to the CBI, a complaint was filed on February 15, 2018, accusing 63-year-old diamantaire Mehul Choksi and others of cheating the Punjab National Bank. Mehul Choksi and others faced five further criminal cases brought by the CBI in 2022 for bank and financial institution fraud.

Earlier in March, Mehul Choksi's name was removed from the Interpol database of Red Notices (RCN). As per reports, Choksi got off the list on the basis of his plea to the Lyon-headquartered agency. Responding on that, CBI said it "continues to exercise available remedial and appellate options within INTERPOL for rectification of this faulty decision and for restoration of Red Notice."

"CBI has pointed out that even Antigua authorities consider there is sufficient evidence to substantiate that the applicant concealed material facts or made false representation when he applied for his Antigua and Barbuda citizenship, a fact which reflects on previous conduct of this criminal," it added.&nbsp;

Choksi's spokesperson claimed, "The report from the Antiguan police, and the evidence adduced by Choksi in the ongoing High Court proceedings in Antigua, point to an alarming case of state orchestrated kidnap, torture and attempted rendition by the Indian government."&nbsp;

"The decision of Interpol to delete the Red Notice strengthens these concerns. Moreover, the preliminary ruling of the High Court in Antigua demonstrates that there is a case to answer for a full investigation. In turn, Choksi has presented a compelling case that the Indian government is behind the orchestrated kidnap from Antiguan territory, the torture of Mr Choksi, and the attempt to render him to India in breach of the international rule of law," he added.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Mehul Choksi, a diamantaire wanted in India in connection with a scam of INR 13,000 crores (Rs 130 billion), cannot be extradited, the Antigua and Barbuda High Court said on Friday.

Mehul Choksi, a diamantaire wanted in India in connection with a scam of INR 13,000 crores (Rs 130 billion), cannot be extradited, the Antigua and Barbuda High Court said on Friday. Choksi had requested relief, including a declaration that says he is entitled to a timely and complete inquiry into the events surrounding his forceful deportation from Antigua and Barbuda on or about May 23, 2021. Mehul Choksi, who is wanted in India for a Rs 13,000-crore fraud in the Punjab National Bank, disappeared from Antigua in May 2021 after fleeing there in 2018 to evade punishment in India for defrauding PNB along with his nephew, Nirav Modi. He had then claimed that he was removed from Antigua & Barbuda and was forced to travel to Dominica in a boat. Also Read | Putin approves electronic call-up bill, clamps down on Russians who dodge military service Choksi argued in his civil lawsuit that the Attorney General of Antigua and the Chief of Police have a duty to conduct a thorough investigation and that he has a plausible claim that he was subjected to inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, according to Dominica-based Nature Isle News. According to the court decision, Mehul Choksi cannot be removed from Antigua and Barbuda's territory until the High Court rules after an inter-party hearing and after Mehul Choksi has exhausted all other legal options, including appeals. "Further or in the alternative, a Declaration that the first Defendant is to establish an independent, judicial inquiry as to the circumstances of the Claimant (Mehul Choksi)'s forcible abduction and removal from the jurisdiction of Antigua and Barbuda on or around 23 May 2021. A Declaration that the second Defendant has a duty to confirm to the Dominican police that the evidence supports that the Claimant was forcibly removed from the jurisdiction and taken to Dominica against his will," the court order read. Also Read | Pentagon leak: US President Biden says investigation will examine why leaker had classified access "An Order that the Claimant may not be caused to leave and/or be removed from the jurisdiction of Antigua and Barbuda without an order from the High Court after an inter partes hearing and subject to the Claimant exhausting any appeals or other legal relief provided by law. An Order that the second Defendant releases the statement taken by its officers from the Claimant on 15 August 2021," it read further. Earlier, India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in its statement said that it remains committed to returning fugitives and criminals to India to face the process of criminal justice. "Systematic steps have been initiated in close coordination with foreign law enforcement agencies for geo-locating and return of wanted criminals and economic offenders. In the last 15 months, over 30 wanted criminals have returned to India," it read. Watch | Macron's pension reform gets constitutional green light despite raging protests × According to the CBI, a complaint was filed on February 15, 2018, accusing 63-year-old diamantaire Mehul Choksi and others of cheating the Punjab National Bank. Mehul Choksi and others faced five further criminal cases brought by the CBI in 2022 for bank and financial institution fraud. Earlier in March, Mehul Choksi's name was removed from the Interpol database of Red Notices (RCN). As per reports, Choksi got off the list on the basis of his plea to the Lyon-headquartered agency. Responding on that, CBI said it "continues to exercise available remedial and appellate options within INTERPOL for rectification of this faulty decision and for restoration of Red Notice." "CBI has pointed out that even Antigua authorities consider there is sufficient evidence to substantiate that the applicant concealed material facts or made false representation when he applied for his Antigua and Barbuda citizenship, a fact which reflects on previous conduct of this criminal," it added. Choksi's spokesperson claimed, "The report from the Antiguan police, and the evidence adduced by Choksi in the ongoing High Court proceedings in Antigua, point to an alarming case of state orchestrated kidnap, torture and attempted rendition by the Indian government." "The decision of Interpol to delete the Red Notice strengthens these concerns. Moreover, the preliminary ruling of the High Court in Antigua demonstrates that there is a case to answer for a full investigation. In turn, Choksi has presented a compelling case that the Indian government is behind the orchestrated kidnap from Antiguan territory, the torture of Mr Choksi, and the attempt to render him to India in breach of the international rule of law," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian fugitive Mehul Choksi cannot be extradited, rules Antigua and Barbuda court

The name of Indian fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi, who is involved in a Rs 13,000-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam and fled the country in 2018, has been removed from the Interpol database of Red Notices (RCN).&nbsp;As per reports, Choksi got off the list basis his plea to the Lyon-headquartered agency.&nbsp;

Interpol Red Notice is a request to law enforcement worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender, or similar legal action.&nbsp;

Initially, it was seen as a setback for India, however the nation's intelligence agency, CBI, said this latest development does not affect the fugitive's extradition request. "CBI continues to exercise available remedial and appellate options within INTERPOL for rectification of this faulty decision and for restoration of Red Notice," ANI reported quoting CBI as saying.&nbsp;

"CBI has pointed out that even Antigua authorities consider there is sufficient evidence to substantiate that the applicant concealed material facts or made false representation when he applied for his Antigua and Barbuda citizenship, a fact which reflects on previous conduct of this criminal," it added.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-11-weeks-of-protests-israel-modifies-key-judicial-reform-574073">After 11 weeks of protests, Israel modifies key judicial reform</a>

Choksi fled India in January 2018 to Antigua and Barbuda to seek refuge. Ten months after, Interpol issued a Red Notice against him. Choksi holds citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda.&nbsp;Reports said that Choksi has raised objections against the CBI chargesheet. On several occassions he also cited health issues.&nbsp;

India's investigating agency CBI has charge-sheeted both Mehul Choksi and his nephew Nirav Modi for their involvement in the PNB fraud.&nbsp;

Choksi's spokesperson claims, "The report from the Antiguan police, and the evidence adduced by Choksi in the ongoing High Court proceedings in Antigua, point to an alarming case of state orchestrated kidnap, torture and attempted rendition by the Indian government."&nbsp;

"The decision of Interpol to delete the Red Notice strengthens these concerns. Moreover, the preliminary ruling of the High Court in Antigua demonstrates that there is a case to answer for a full investigation. In turn, Choksi has presented a compelling case that the Indian government is behind the orchestrated kidnap from Antiguan territory, the torture of Mr Choksi, and the attempt to render him to India in breach of the international rule of law," he added.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-signs-law-declassifying-us-intelligence-on-covid-virus-origin-574071">President Joe Biden signs law declassifying US intelligence on Covid virus origin</a>

In a major development in May 2021 that had major reverberations in India, Choksi was mysteriously seen in neighbouring Dominica.&nbsp;He was detained for in Dominica for illegally entering the country.

As soon as the news of this breakthrough development of Choksi's arrest in Dominica came to surface, India scrambled its team headed by CBI DIG Sharda Raut to bring back the fugitive to India and bring him to books.&nbsp;Choksi's lawyers got in motion and filed a habeas corpus petition before the Dominica High Court.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-protest-police-fire-tear-gas-on-protestors-574080">France protest: Police fire tear gas on protestors</a>

The 62-year-old businessman Choksi got out of prison after 51 days following a bail by Dominica High Court in July 2021 to travel back to Antigua.&nbsp;The bail was provided with a provision that he will return to face trail once he got his health clearance. Afterwards, all charges against Choksi illegally entering Dominica were dropped.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The name of Indian fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi, who is involved in a Rs 13,000-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam and fled the country in 2018, has been removed from the Interpol database of Red Notices (RCN).

The name of Indian fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi, who is involved in a Rs 13,000-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam and fled the country in 2018, has been removed from the Interpol database of Red Notices (RCN). As per reports, Choksi got off the list basis his plea to the Lyon-headquartered agency. Interpol Red Notice is a request to law enforcement worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender, or similar legal action. Initially, it was seen as a setback for India, however the nation's intelligence agency, CBI, said this latest development does not affect the fugitive's extradition request. "CBI continues to exercise available remedial and appellate options within INTERPOL for rectification of this faulty decision and for restoration of Red Notice," ANI reported quoting CBI as saying. "CBI has pointed out that even Antigua authorities consider there is sufficient evidence to substantiate that the applicant concealed material facts or made false representation when he applied for his Antigua and Barbuda citizenship, a fact which reflects on previous conduct of this criminal," it added. Also Read | After 11 weeks of protests, Israel modifies key judicial reform Choksi fled India in January 2018 to Antigua and Barbuda to seek refuge. Ten months after, Interpol issued a Red Notice against him. Choksi holds citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda. Reports said that Choksi has raised objections against the CBI chargesheet. On several occassions he also cited health issues. India's investigating agency CBI has charge-sheeted both Mehul Choksi and his nephew Nirav Modi for their involvement in the PNB fraud. Choksi's spokesperson claims, "The report from the Antiguan police, and the evidence adduced by Choksi in the ongoing High Court proceedings in Antigua, point to an alarming case of state orchestrated kidnap, torture and attempted rendition by the Indian government." "The decision of Interpol to delete the Red Notice strengthens these concerns. Moreover, the preliminary ruling of the High Court in Antigua demonstrates that there is a case to answer for a full investigation. In turn, Choksi has presented a compelling case that the Indian government is behind the orchestrated kidnap from Antiguan territory, the torture of Mr Choksi, and the attempt to render him to India in breach of the international rule of law," he added. Also Read | President Joe Biden signs law declassifying US intelligence on Covid virus origin In a major development in May 2021 that had major reverberations in India, Choksi was mysteriously seen in neighbouring Dominica. He was detained for in Dominica for illegally entering the country. As soon as the news of this breakthrough development of Choksi's arrest in Dominica came to surface, India scrambled its team headed by CBI DIG Sharda Raut to bring back the fugitive to India and bring him to books. Choksi's lawyers got in motion and filed a habeas corpus petition before the Dominica High Court. Watch | France protest: Police fire tear gas on protestors The 62-year-old businessman Choksi got out of prison after 51 days following a bail by Dominica High Court in July 2021 to travel back to Antigua. The bail was provided with a provision that he will return to face trail once he got his health clearance. Afterwards, all charges against Choksi illegally entering Dominica were dropped. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi removed from Interpol Red Notice List

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi has reportedly been buying protection in Antigua by bribing officials, according to investigations conducted by Kenneth Rijock, a renowned financial crimes investigator.&nbsp;

The shocking revelations were made in Rijock's news article on Blogger against Mehul Choksi's bribery and conspiracy in Antigua. He wrote that officials are interfering with Interpol's efforts to detain him for extradition to India.

Choksi has been plotting to illegally extend the court process in Antigua by paying bribes to government officials, including senior Antigua police official, Adonis Henry.

Several witnesses have talked about how Choksi and Inspector Henry have been meeting at least three times a day at Al Porto, a Jolly Harbor restaurant reportedly owned by Choksi, wrote Rijock in his financial crime blog.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/treat-mehul-choksi-as-a-citizen-says-antiguan-opposition-party-388402">Treat Mehul Choksi as a citizen, says Antiguan opposition party&nbsp;</a>

His article further says that besides reaching out to Henry, Choksi has also tried to influence Antigua magistrate Conliffe Clarke through illegal payments. In a bid to delay his extradition, Choksi has tried to influence Clarke through illegal payments, wrote Rijock in his blog post.

Clarke and Henry have conspired to interfere with Interpol's efforts to detain him for extradition to face charges in India, Rijock said citing his sources.

Rijock also describes how the diamond merchant failed to flee from Antigua to Cuba and how he then ended up fabricating a kidnapping scenario, backing his information with various facts.

Choksi wanted to flee to Cuba since it does not have an extradition treaty with India. However, since he failed to pay the promised amount to the smugglers' crew of the ship transporting him to Cuba, &nbsp;he was dumped off on the coast of Dominica in May 2021.&nbsp;

An Antiguan court has already ordered Choksi extradited to India for allegedly stealing the equivalent of millions of dollars. But his bribes to corrupt government officials, judges and law enforcement agents in Antigua have delayed the proceeding.&nbsp;

Choksi obtained a Citizenship by Investment (CIP/CBI) passport in Antigua, notwithstanding an outstanding Interpol Red Notice seeking his arrest. Interpol has issued a Red notice against the fugitive who had been involved in the Punjab National Bank Scam following which he fled the country in 2018.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi has reportedly been buying protection in Antigua by bribing officials, according to investigations conducted by Kenneth Rijock, a renowned financial crimes investigator.

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi has reportedly been buying protection in Antigua by bribing officials, according to investigations conducted by Kenneth Rijock, a renowned financial crimes investigator. The shocking revelations were made in Rijock's news article on Blogger against Mehul Choksi's bribery and conspiracy in Antigua. He wrote that officials are interfering with Interpol's efforts to detain him for extradition to India. Choksi has been plotting to illegally extend the court process in Antigua by paying bribes to government officials, including senior Antigua police official, Adonis Henry. Several witnesses have talked about how Choksi and Inspector Henry have been meeting at least three times a day at Al Porto, a Jolly Harbor restaurant reportedly owned by Choksi, wrote Rijock in his financial crime blog. Also Read | Treat Mehul Choksi as a citizen, says Antiguan opposition party His article further says that besides reaching out to Henry, Choksi has also tried to influence Antigua magistrate Conliffe Clarke through illegal payments. In a bid to delay his extradition, Choksi has tried to influence Clarke through illegal payments, wrote Rijock in his blog post. Clarke and Henry have conspired to interfere with Interpol's efforts to detain him for extradition to face charges in India, Rijock said citing his sources. Rijock also describes how the diamond merchant failed to flee from Antigua to Cuba and how he then ended up fabricating a kidnapping scenario, backing his information with various facts. Choksi wanted to flee to Cuba since it does not have an extradition treaty with India. However, since he failed to pay the promised amount to the smugglers' crew of the ship transporting him to Cuba, he was dumped off on the coast of Dominica in May 2021. An Antiguan court has already ordered Choksi extradited to India for allegedly stealing the equivalent of millions of dollars. But his bribes to corrupt government officials, judges and law enforcement agents in Antigua have delayed the proceeding. Choksi obtained a Citizenship by Investment (CIP/CBI) passport in Antigua, notwithstanding an outstanding Interpol Red Notice seeking his arrest. Interpol has issued a Red notice against the fugitive who had been involved in the Punjab National Bank Scam following which he fled the country in 2018. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mehul Choksi bribing officials to prolong extradition process: Reports

Fugitive diamond merchant Mehul Choksi who is wanted in India; has reportedly been bribing officials in Antigua, the commonwealth territory in the Caribbean where he is seeking asylum to ward off Interpol's efforts to detain him for extradition to India

Fugitive diamond merchant Mehul Choksi bribing Antiguan officials, says report

Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi on Saturday got relief from the Commonwealth of Dominica where he was charged with illegal entry by the police. The prosecution of Dominica decided to withdraw/discontinue the legal proceedings in the illegal entry case against him.

"Choksi is pleased that the Dominican Government has today dropped all charges against him for unlawful entry in May 2021. By doing so they now recognise that there was never any case against him. Choksi was forcibly removed from Antigua against his will by agents of the Indian State, viciously assaulted, and taken to Dominica by boat, where he was again unlawfully handed over to authorities for an offence he never committed. Choksi`s legal team continue to pursue all avenues for justice to redress the human rights violations committed against him.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-files-another-case-against-mehul-choksi-after-raids-475844">CBI files another case against Mehul Choksi after raids</a>

Choksi hopes that those responsible for his kidnapping from Antigua on May 23,2021 will be brought to justice," reads the statement of Choksi issued by his spokesperson.

Director of Public Prosecutions (AG) in a reply filed on May 17, 2022, to Magistrate Court, informed that `Mehul Chinubhai Choksi` was charged, for that he, on the 24th day of May 2021 at Toucarie Bay, Toucarie in the Parish of St John, in the Commonwealth of Dominica, did enter illegally into the Commonwealth of Dominica at a place to wit `Toucarie Bay, Toucarie` not approved as a point of entry."

The reply of the Director of Prosecutions further stated that "in accordance with the provisions of Section 72(2) (c) of the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Dominica, I do hereby discontinue the above-mentioned proceedings against the said, Mehul Chinubhai Choksi."

Watch |&nbsp;India to Dominica court: Mehul Choksi is still an Indian citizen

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-to-dominica-court-mehul-choksi-is-still-an-indian-citizen-391684/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After the decision of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Choksi`s lawyer Advocate Vijay Aggarwal told ANI, "Truth always comes out in the end, no matter how hard anyone tries to stop it or hide it. Lies are just temporary delays to the inevitable. It was extremely insensitive for some people to call injuries on my client Mehul Choksi to be fake because of some legal strategy."

Earlier, while Dominica High Court granted interim bail to Choksi on the medical grounds, his lawyer had said that all pending proceedings related to illegal entry against Mehul Choksi will be kept in abeyance till he gets medically fit to come back to Dominica. But according to us, that was not an illegal entry matter, it was a forceful entry case, he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fugitive-businessman-mehul-choksi-returns-to-antigua-after-dominica-court-lets-him-return-for-medical-treatment-398178">Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi returns to Antigua after Dominica court lets him return for medical treatment</a>

Fugitive Businessman Mehul Choksi who had gone missing from Antigua on May 23, 2021, was soon caught in Dominica. He was charged with illegal entry by the police in Dominica.

The 62-year-old fugitive is wanted in India in connection with a Rs 13,500-crore fraud in the Punjab National Bank (PNB).

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi on Saturday got relief from the Commonwealth of Dominica where he was charged with illegal entry by the police. The prosecution of Dominica decided to withdraw/discontinue the legal proceedings in the illegal entry case against him.

Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi on Saturday got relief from the Commonwealth of Dominica where he was charged with illegal entry by the police. The prosecution of Dominica decided to withdraw/discontinue the legal proceedings in the illegal entry case against him. "Choksi is pleased that the Dominican Government has today dropped all charges against him for unlawful entry in May 2021. By doing so they now recognise that there was never any case against him. Choksi was forcibly removed from Antigua against his will by agents of the Indian State, viciously assaulted, and taken to Dominica by boat, where he was again unlawfully handed over to authorities for an offence he never committed. Choksi`s legal team continue to pursue all avenues for justice to redress the human rights violations committed against him. Also read | CBI files another case against Mehul Choksi after raids Choksi hopes that those responsible for his kidnapping from Antigua on May 23,2021 will be brought to justice," reads the statement of Choksi issued by his spokesperson. Director of Public Prosecutions (AG) in a reply filed on May 17, 2022, to Magistrate Court, informed that `Mehul Chinubhai Choksi` was charged, for that he, on the 24th day of May 2021 at Toucarie Bay, Toucarie in the Parish of St John, in the Commonwealth of Dominica, did enter illegally into the Commonwealth of Dominica at a place to wit `Toucarie Bay, Toucarie` not approved as a point of entry." The reply of the Director of Prosecutions further stated that "in accordance with the provisions of Section 72(2) (c) of the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Dominica, I do hereby discontinue the above-mentioned proceedings against the said, Mehul Chinubhai Choksi." Watch | India to Dominica court: Mehul Choksi is still an Indian citizen After the decision of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Choksi`s lawyer Advocate Vijay Aggarwal told ANI, "Truth always comes out in the end, no matter how hard anyone tries to stop it or hide it. Lies are just temporary delays to the inevitable. It was extremely insensitive for some people to call injuries on my client Mehul Choksi to be fake because of some legal strategy." Earlier, while Dominica High Court granted interim bail to Choksi on the medical grounds, his lawyer had said that all pending proceedings related to illegal entry against Mehul Choksi will be kept in abeyance till he gets medically fit to come back to Dominica. But according to us, that was not an illegal entry matter, it was a forceful entry case, he added. Also read | Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi returns to Antigua after Dominica court lets him return for medical treatment Fugitive Businessman Mehul Choksi who had gone missing from Antigua on May 23, 2021, was soon caught in Dominica. He was charged with illegal entry by the police in Dominica. The 62-year-old fugitive is wanted in India in connection with a Rs 13,500-crore fraud in the Punjab National Bank (PNB). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dominica withdraws illegal entry case against Mehul Choksi

India Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) on Monday filed a case against Mehul Choksi who is wanted in the multi-billion dollar&nbsp;Punjab National Bank (PNB)&nbsp;fraud along with Nirav Modi.

The case involves Choksi allegedly inflating the value of diamonds and jewellery as the CBI reportedly booked Choksi and his company Gitanjali Gems including valuers Surajmal Lallu Bhai and Co, Narendra Jhaveri, Pradip C Shah and Shrenik Shah.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fugitive-businessman-mehul-choksi-returns-to-antigua-after-dominica-court-lets-him-return-for-medical-treatment-398178">Also Read:&nbsp;Mehul Choksi returns to Antigua after Dominica court lets him return for medical treatment</a>

Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI) Ltd had alleged that Choksi had approached it seeking Rs 25 crore working capital loan as he pledged shares,&nbsp;gold and diamond jewellery.

The valuers at the time had said the jewellery was in the range of Rs 34-45 crore on the basis of which IFCI sanctioned the loan.

Watch:&nbsp;India to Dominica court: Mehul Choksi is still an Indian citizen

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-to-dominica-court-mehul-choksi-is-still-an-indian-citizen-391684/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, after the&nbsp;company allegedly defaulted on payments as IFCI called in the shares and jewellery but it could sell 6,48,822 shares for just Rs 4,07 crore even as 20,60,054 shares were pledged but the client ID of Mehul Choksi was blocked by NSDL, according to the complaint.

The incident was recorded in the FIR. Choksi along with Nirav Modi has been accused by Indian authorities of siphoning off over billions from Punjab National Bank (PNB) using fraudulent letters of undertaking and foreign letters of credit.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Watch WION LIVE Here

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

India Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) on Monday filed a case against Mehul Choksi who is wanted in the multi-billion dollar Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud along with Nirav Modi.

India Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) on Monday filed a case against Mehul Choksi who is wanted in the multi-billion dollar Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud along with Nirav Modi. The case involves Choksi allegedly inflating the value of diamonds and jewellery as the CBI reportedly booked Choksi and his company Gitanjali Gems including valuers Surajmal Lallu Bhai and Co, Narendra Jhaveri, Pradip C Shah and Shrenik Shah. Also Read: Mehul Choksi returns to Antigua after Dominica court lets him return for medical treatment Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI) Ltd had alleged that Choksi had approached it seeking Rs 25 crore working capital loan as he pledged shares, gold and diamond jewellery. The valuers at the time had said the jewellery was in the range of Rs 34-45 crore on the basis of which IFCI sanctioned the loan. Watch: India to Dominica court: Mehul Choksi is still an Indian citizen However, after the company allegedly defaulted on payments as IFCI called in the shares and jewellery but it could sell 6,48,822 shares for just Rs 4,07 crore even as 20,60,054 shares were pledged but the client ID of Mehul Choksi was blocked by NSDL, according to the complaint. The incident was recorded in the FIR. Choksi along with Nirav Modi has been accused by Indian authorities of siphoning off over billions from Punjab National Bank (PNB) using fraudulent letters of undertaking and foreign letters of credit. (With inputs from Agencies) Watch WION LIVE Here

CBI files another case against Mehul Choksi after raids

India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) got Subhash Shankar Parab deported from Egypt to India on Tuesday (April 12) after a long diplomatic and legal process.&nbsp;

Parab is a key accused in connection with the multi-billion dollar Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam in 2018, involving diamantaire Nirav Modi.&nbsp;

Officials have stated that a CBI team had gone to Cairo to bring back 50-year-old Parab, who was allegedly kept in illegal confinement in the Egyptian capital city.&nbsp;

Officials added that Parab was the Deputy General Manager (Finance) in Firestar Diamond. He landed in Mumbai early after "deportation".&nbsp;

According to the officials, Parab was absconding ever since the case involving diamantaire Nirav Modi&nbsp;and his uncle Mehul Choksi came to light.&nbsp;

India had issued an Interpol Red Notice against Parab to track him and bring him back.&nbsp;

India-based news agencies reported that authorities received information that Parab was kept in illegal confinement by Nirav Modi's men.&nbsp;

As noted by Interpol, charges on Nirav Modi are punishments of criminal conspiracy, criminal breach of trust by public servant, or by banker merchant or agent, cheating and dishonesttly inducing delivery of property, prevention of corruption act.&nbsp;

Officials stated that after a long diplomatic and legal process, the CBI managed to secure "administrative extradition" or deportation of Parab.&nbsp;

Officials believe Parab could spill the beans on the country's biggest banking scam allegedly perpetrated by Nirav Modi and Choksi with a combined loss of Rs13,000 crore.&nbsp;

Earlier, the investigation revealed that the duo is wanted for allegedly siphoning off public money from the state-run PNB, using the Letters of Undertaking.&nbsp;

The investigations revealed that messages for fraudulent LoUs were sent to overseas banks by misusing Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (SWIFT), an international messaging system for banking, and without making their subsequent entries in PNB's internal software 'Finacle', thus bypassing any scrutiny of such funds in the bank.&nbsp;

An LoU is a guarantee given by an issuing bank to Indian banks having branches abroad to grant a short-term credit to the applicant.&nbsp;

In case of default, the bank issuing the LoU has to pay the liability to the credit-giving bank along with accruing interest.&nbsp;

The companies of Nirav Modi and Choksi took loans from banks abroad on the basis of these LoUs but did not repay them, thus transferring the liability to PNB.&nbsp;

Nirav Modi is in a London prison after repeated denial of bail and is contesting extradition to India.&nbsp;

Choksi had taken the citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 using the Citizenship by Investment programme even before fleeing India in the first week of January 2018.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;India's import of Russian oil remains point of contention between New Delhi and Washington

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-import-of-russian-oil-remains-point-of-contention-between-new-delhi-and-washington-470379/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) got Subhash Shankar Parab deported from Egypt to India on Tuesday (April 12) after a long diplomatic and legal process.

India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) got Subhash Shankar Parab deported from Egypt to India on Tuesday (April 12) after a long diplomatic and legal process. Parab is a key accused in connection with the multi-billion dollar Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam in 2018, involving diamantaire Nirav Modi. Officials have stated that a CBI team had gone to Cairo to bring back 50-year-old Parab, who was allegedly kept in illegal confinement in the Egyptian capital city. Officials added that Parab was the Deputy General Manager (Finance) in Firestar Diamond. He landed in Mumbai early after "deportation". According to the officials, Parab was absconding ever since the case involving diamantaire Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi came to light. India had issued an Interpol Red Notice against Parab to track him and bring him back. India-based news agencies reported that authorities received information that Parab was kept in illegal confinement by Nirav Modi's men. As noted by Interpol, charges on Nirav Modi are punishments of criminal conspiracy, criminal breach of trust by public servant, or by banker merchant or agent, cheating and dishonesttly inducing delivery of property, prevention of corruption act. Officials stated that after a long diplomatic and legal process, the CBI managed to secure "administrative extradition" or deportation of Parab. Officials believe Parab could spill the beans on the country's biggest banking scam allegedly perpetrated by Nirav Modi and Choksi with a combined loss of Rs13,000 crore. Earlier, the investigation revealed that the duo is wanted for allegedly siphoning off public money from the state-run PNB, using the Letters of Undertaking. The investigations revealed that messages for fraudulent LoUs were sent to overseas banks by misusing Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (SWIFT), an international messaging system for banking, and without making their subsequent entries in PNB's internal software 'Finacle', thus bypassing any scrutiny of such funds in the bank. An LoU is a guarantee given by an issuing bank to Indian banks having branches abroad to grant a short-term credit to the applicant. In case of default, the bank issuing the LoU has to pay the liability to the credit-giving bank along with accruing interest. The companies of Nirav Modi and Choksi took loans from banks abroad on the basis of these LoUs but did not repay them, thus transferring the liability to PNB. Nirav Modi is in a London prison after repeated denial of bail and is contesting extradition to India. Choksi had taken the citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 using the Citizenship by Investment programme even before fleeing India in the first week of January 2018. ALSO WATCH | India's import of Russian oil remains point of contention between New Delhi and Washington × (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Subhash Shankar Parab? Nirav Modi's close aide deported to India from Egypt

Mehul Choksi, the fugitive diamond jeweller, has returned to Antigua and Barbuda for medical treatment after spending 51 days in detention in Dominica for illegal entry.&nbsp;

“My client Choksi has returned to his house in Antigua safely.He had no problems getting back into Antigua,” Choksi's lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, said.

Choksi is undergoing medical care, and his family is relieved, but the brutality he endured during his kidnapping caused him a great deal of psychological and bodily suffering, according to Aggarwal. 
 
“All well that ends well. After tasting success in Dominica now legal team is gearing up for long drawn fight in Antigua,” Aggarwal added. 
 
Choksi reportedly disappeared on May 23 in Antigua and Barbuda, where he had been a citizen since 2018 after fleeing Delhi.

He was jailed in Dominica, a neighbouring island republic, for allegedly entering the country illegally.

His lawyers claimed he was kidnapped from Jolly Harbour in Antigua by police officers who appeared to be Antiguan and Indian, and then transported to Dominica by boat.&nbsp;

Choksi was granted bail on medical grounds on Monday by Dominica High Court. &nbsp;The court has asked Choksi to deposit Eastern Caribbean dollars 10,000 (around Rs 2.75 lakh) as surety for the bail.

(With inputs from agencies)

Mehul Choksi, the fugitive diamond jeweller, has returned to Antigua and Barbuda for medical treatment after spending 51 days in detention in Dominica for illegal entry.

Mehul Choksi, the fugitive diamond jeweller, has returned to Antigua and Barbuda for medical treatment after spending 51 days in detention in Dominica for illegal entry. “My client Choksi has returned to his house in Antigua safely.He had no problems getting back into Antigua,” Choksi's lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, said. Choksi is undergoing medical care, and his family is relieved, but the brutality he endured during his kidnapping caused him a great deal of psychological and bodily suffering, according to Aggarwal. “All well that ends well. After tasting success in Dominica now legal team is gearing up for long drawn fight in Antigua,” Aggarwal added. Choksi reportedly disappeared on May 23 in Antigua and Barbuda, where he had been a citizen since 2018 after fleeing Delhi. He was jailed in Dominica, a neighbouring island republic, for allegedly entering the country illegally. His lawyers claimed he was kidnapped from Jolly Harbour in Antigua by police officers who appeared to be Antiguan and Indian, and then transported to Dominica by boat. Choksi was granted bail on medical grounds on Monday by Dominica High Court. The court has asked Choksi to deposit Eastern Caribbean dollars 10,000 (around Rs 2.75 lakh) as surety for the bail. (With inputs from agencies)

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi returns to Antigua after Dominica court lets him return for medical treatment

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi, who is under arrest in Dominica has been granted bail by a Caribbean court. Choksi has been allowed to return to Antigua and Barbuda for medical consultation.

Dominican court grants interim bail to Mehul Choksi on medical grounds

Mehul Choksi, a fugitive businessman, has filed a judicial review petition in the Dominica High Court, alleging that his detention for illegal immigration was "dictated" by Indian government officials.

Choksi's lawyers said that the police chief and investigating officer's decision to charge him was not "their independent judgement" and that it was a "abuse of the court process."&nbsp;

The case was filed against the immigration minister of the Caribbean nation, its police chief and the investigating officer of the case.&nbsp;

Choksi, who went missing from Antigua and Barbuda where he had been living since 2018 after his escape from India, was arrested on May 23 in neighbouring Dominica for illegal entry. He was declared a prohibited immigrant by the Ministry of Immigration in Dominica.

The 62-year-old diamantaire, who is wanted in connection with a $2 billion Punjab National Bank scam, has filed a complaint with Dominica's high court, claiming that Acting Chief of Police Lincoln Corbette and investigating Officer Sergeant Alleyne's decision to charge him with illegal entry was "not a product of their independent judgement."&nbsp;

"...they allowed themselves to be dictated by third parties, representatives of the Indian government...," Choksi alleged.

Seeking to quash the proceedings against him, Choksi pleaded before the high court that the decision to charge him for illegal entry was violative of law and accordingly, null and void, Caribbean media outlet Nature Isle News reported.

(With inputs from PTI)

Mehul Choksi, a fugitive businessman, has filed a judicial review petition in the Dominica High Court, alleging that his detention for illegal immigration was "dictated" by Indian government officials.

Mehul Choksi, a fugitive businessman, has filed a judicial review petition in the Dominica High Court, alleging that his detention for illegal immigration was "dictated" by Indian government officials. Choksi's lawyers said that the police chief and investigating officer's decision to charge him was not "their independent judgement" and that it was a "abuse of the court process." The case was filed against the immigration minister of the Caribbean nation, its police chief and the investigating officer of the case. Choksi, who went missing from Antigua and Barbuda where he had been living since 2018 after his escape from India, was arrested on May 23 in neighbouring Dominica for illegal entry. He was declared a prohibited immigrant by the Ministry of Immigration in Dominica. The 62-year-old diamantaire, who is wanted in connection with a $2 billion Punjab National Bank scam, has filed a complaint with Dominica's high court, claiming that Acting Chief of Police Lincoln Corbette and investigating Officer Sergeant Alleyne's decision to charge him with illegal entry was "not a product of their independent judgement." "...they allowed themselves to be dictated by third parties, representatives of the Indian government...," Choksi alleged. Seeking to quash the proceedings against him, Choksi pleaded before the high court that the decision to charge him for illegal entry was violative of law and accordingly, null and void, Caribbean media outlet Nature Isle News reported. (With inputs from PTI)

Mehul Choksi says his arrest 'dictated by Indian govt', moves Dominica court

Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has termed "total nonsense" the claims that his government was involved in alleged abduction of diamantaire Mehul Choksi, wanted in Rs 13,5000 crore scam in Punjab National Bank, from Antigua and Barbuda, neighbouring local media there reported.

In his weekly "annou palay" show, Skerrit said his government will allow the court to carry out its process regarding Choksi and gave the assurance that his rights and obligations will be respected, Dominica News Online reported.

Skerrit refuted the allegations of a plot between India and Dominica government to kidnap Choksi from neighbouring Caribbean country Antigua and Barbuda, where he was staying since 2018 as a citizen, after fleeing from India, and bring him to Dominica, the news portal reported.

"To say that the government of Dominica and the government of Antigua along with India colluded in any way, give me a break, that's total nonsense. We don't get involved ourselves in those kinds of activities, those practices, not at all. I mean that is absurd and we reject it and it is unfortunate that anybody would want to propagate this unsubstantiated claim by a gentleman who is before the courts," he was quoted as saying by Dominica News Online.

He further said "whether it would be fair for a local who commits murder in Dominica and flees to another country, is allowed to roam free or instead be apprehended and sent back to Dominica to face his charges".

Citing the case of a Dominica citizen wanted by the United States whose extradition proceedings are going on in courts to counter opposition on Choksi, Skerrit said the country cannot treat people differently depending on who they are or how much money they may have.

"All of us are subjected to the laws irrespective of our position or how much money we may have or how much we don't have. And I believe that in this circumstanceDominica has a right and obligation to apprehend this person and bring the person before the courts and let the courts determine," he said.

"We here in Dominica with the opposition talking about Choksi but there is a young boy from Grand BayWhere there is an extradition request by the United States government on allegations that he committed a crime in St Thomas and we are mandated and obligated to apprehend him.

"And the police acted on the instruction of the DPP (Director of Public Prosecutions) arrested the young man and he is remanded at the state prison awaiting his extradition hearing. His lawyers will fight his case. If the courts believe that there is no reason to extradite him to the United States then he will go freely," Skerrit said.

Choksi's lawyer in Dominica Justin Simon claimed that United Kingdom's Metropolitan Police, known as Scotland Yard, has started looking into allegations of torture and kidnapping of Choksi as citizens there were allegedly part of the plot, the news site reported.

Simon told media that there will be international implications if Dominica or Antigua turns out to be involved in the alleged plot, it said.

Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has termed "total nonsense" the claims that his government was involved in alleged abduction of diamantaire Mehul Choksi, wanted in Rs 13,5000 crore scam in Punjab National Bank, from Antigua and Barbuda, neighbouring local media there reported.

Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has termed "total nonsense" the claims that his government was involved in alleged abduction of diamantaire Mehul Choksi, wanted in Rs 13,5000 crore scam in Punjab National Bank, from Antigua and Barbuda, neighbouring local media there reported. In his weekly "annou palay" show, Skerrit said his government will allow the court to carry out its process regarding Choksi and gave the assurance that his rights and obligations will be respected, Dominica News Online reported. Skerrit refuted the allegations of a plot between India and Dominica government to kidnap Choksi from neighbouring Caribbean country Antigua and Barbuda, where he was staying since 2018 as a citizen, after fleeing from India, and bring him to Dominica, the news portal reported. "To say that the government of Dominica and the government of Antigua along with India colluded in any way, give me a break, that's total nonsense. We don't get involved ourselves in those kinds of activities, those practices, not at all. I mean that is absurd and we reject it and it is unfortunate that anybody would want to propagate this unsubstantiated claim by a gentleman who is before the courts," he was quoted as saying by Dominica News Online. He further said "whether it would be fair for a local who commits murder in Dominica and flees to another country, is allowed to roam free or instead be apprehended and sent back to Dominica to face his charges". Citing the case of a Dominica citizen wanted by the United States whose extradition proceedings are going on in courts to counter opposition on Choksi, Skerrit said the country cannot treat people differently depending on who they are or how much money they may have. "All of us are subjected to the laws irrespective of our position or how much money we may have or how much we don't have. And I believe that in this circumstanceDominica has a right and obligation to apprehend this person and bring the person before the courts and let the courts determine," he said. "We here in Dominica with the opposition talking about Choksi but there is a young boy from Grand BayWhere there is an extradition request by the United States government on allegations that he committed a crime in St Thomas and we are mandated and obligated to apprehend him. "And the police acted on the instruction of the DPP (Director of Public Prosecutions) arrested the young man and he is remanded at the state prison awaiting his extradition hearing. His lawyers will fight his case. If the courts believe that there is no reason to extradite him to the United States then he will go freely," Skerrit said. Choksi's lawyer in Dominica Justin Simon claimed that United Kingdom's Metropolitan Police, known as Scotland Yard, has started looking into allegations of torture and kidnapping of Choksi as citizens there were allegedly part of the plot, the news site reported. Simon told media that there will be international implications if Dominica or Antigua turns out to be involved in the alleged plot, it said.

'Total nonsense': Dominica PM on claims that his government was involved in Choksi's abduction

&nbsp;About 40 per cent of the money lost by banks in alleged frauds perpetrated by fugitive businessmen Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and Vijay Mallya has been recovered so far, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said after the sale of attached shares worth over Rs 5,800 crore on Wednesday.

According to the agency, the latest sale proceeds take the total value of recovery to Rs 9,041.5 crore, or 40 per cent of the over Rs 22,000 crore allegedly defrauded by the trio.

Commenting on the development, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tweeted, "Fugitives &amp; economic offenders will be actively pursued; their properties attached &amp; dues recovered."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-judge-denies-for-more-funds-for-legal-charges-to-indian-fugitive-vijay-mallya-387657/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The three, who fled overseas as a probe against them gathered pace, are being investigated by central investigative agencies such as the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) after they were alleged to have cheated banks, and these frauds have been categorised as among the country's biggest criminal loan heist till date.

The central agency gave the low-down on these two cases, the estimated Rs 13,000 crore fraud allegedly carried out by diamond trader Nirav Modi, his uncle Mehul Choksi and others in the Brady House branch of PNB in Mumbai and the about Rs 9,000 crore Kingfisher Airlines fraud triggered by Mallya, in a statement issued here.

It said the three "defrauded" public sector banks by siphoning off the funds through their companies which resulted in a total loss of over Rs 22,000 crore or $ 2,20,000 Million (Rs 22,585.83 crore in definite numbers) to a clutch of banks.

Asked for a comment, Choksi's lawyer Vijay Aggarwal told PTI, "The ED has indeed attached assets much more than the money due to the banks."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-mallya-loses-bankruptcy-petition-amendment-high-court-battle-in-uk-385876">Vijay Mallya loses bankruptcy petition amendment High Court battle in UK</a>&nbsp;

The ED, empowered to probe such cases under criminal sections of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), went on to attach and seize total assets worth Rs 18,170.02 crore in these two cases that included Rs 969 crore worth of properties "located" abroad.

"The quantum of the attached and seized assets represent 80.45 per cent of the total bank loss of Rs 22,585.83 crore," the ED said.

On Wednesday, out of these attached assets, the Debts Recovery Tribunal (DRT) on behalf of an SBI-led consortium that lent money to Mallya sold fresh shares worth Rs 5,824.50 crore of United Breweries Limited (UBL), the agency said.

The DRT action came after the ED transferred the shares worth about Rs 6,624 crore of UBL attached by it to the SBI-led consortium on the directions of a special PMLA court that is hearing these cases in Mumbai.

"Further realisation of Rs 800 crore by sale of these shares is expected by June 25," it added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirav-modi-faces-another-setback-as-uk-judge-rules-in-indias-favour-340393">Nirav Modi faces another setback as UK judge rules in India's favour</a>

The banks have earlier "recovered" Rs 1,357 crore by a similar sale of shares in the case against Mallya and his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines, the ED said.

Another Rs 1,060 crore worth of assets were "restituted" to the banks earlier in the probe against Nirav Modi, they said.

As of date, the ED said, assets worth Rs 9,041.5 crore, "representing 40 per cent of the total loss to the banks, have been handed over to public sector banks."

"Thus, the banks shall be realising total amount of Rs 9,041.5 crore through sale of a part of assets attached/seized by ED under the PMLA," it said.

In addition, official sources said, Rs 329.67 crore has been realised in the government exchequer after Modi's assets were confiscated in July last year after the 50-year-old diamantaire was declared a fugitive economic offender by a special court in Mumbai.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mehul-choksis-claim-of-renouncing-indian-citizenship-bogus-india-391576/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The ED said the probe has "irrevocably proved" that the three used dummy entities controlled by them for rotation and siphoning off the funds provided by the banks.

"The investigators had to pierce through the multi-layered corporate veil to find these assets that were held in exclusive possession."

"It was a myriad web of domestic and international transactions and stashing of assets abroad," a senior officer said. 
The ED also got repatriated to the country assets like gold and diamond jewellery (of Modi and Choksi firms) from abroad to ensure they are not disposed off and are available to the banks and the government exchequer for seizure.

The agency said, "a substantial part of these assets were held in the names of dummy entities, trusts, third persons, relatives of these accused and these entities were proxy of the three accused to hold these assets."

It said the extradition of Mallya (65) "has been ordered by the Westminster Magistrates Court and confirmed by the UK High Court."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/enforcement-directorate-seizes-vijay-mallyas-asset-in-france-worth-19-million-347571">Enforcement Directorate seizes Vijay Mallya’s asset in France worth $1.9 million</a>

"Since Mallya has been denied permission to file appeal in the UK Supreme Court, his extradition to India has become final," it added.

It said Modi too has lost his extradition plea and has been in a London jail for the last 2.3 years.

Choksi (62) had mysteriously gone missing on May 23 from Antigua and Barbuda, where he has been staying since 2018 as a citizen, and later surfaced in neighbouring Dominica from where India is trying to get him deported.

About 40 per cent of the money lost by banks in alleged frauds perpetrated by fugitive businessmen Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and Vijay Mallya has been recovered so far, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said after the sale of attached shares worth over Rs 5,800 crore on Wednesday.

About 40 per cent of the money lost by banks in alleged frauds perpetrated by fugitive businessmen Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and Vijay Mallya has been recovered so far, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said after the sale of attached shares worth over Rs 5,800 crore on Wednesday. According to the agency, the latest sale proceeds take the total value of recovery to Rs 9,041.5 crore, or 40 per cent of the over Rs 22,000 crore allegedly defrauded by the trio. Commenting on the development, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tweeted, "Fugitives & economic offenders will be actively pursued; their properties attached & dues recovered." The three, who fled overseas as a probe against them gathered pace, are being investigated by central investigative agencies such as the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) after they were alleged to have cheated banks, and these frauds have been categorised as among the country's biggest criminal loan heist till date. The central agency gave the low-down on these two cases, the estimated Rs 13,000 crore fraud allegedly carried out by diamond trader Nirav Modi, his uncle Mehul Choksi and others in the Brady House branch of PNB in Mumbai and the about Rs 9,000 crore Kingfisher Airlines fraud triggered by Mallya, in a statement issued here. It said the three "defrauded" public sector banks by siphoning off the funds through their companies which resulted in a total loss of over Rs 22,000 crore or $ 2,20,000 Million (Rs 22,585.83 crore in definite numbers) to a clutch of banks. Asked for a comment, Choksi's lawyer Vijay Aggarwal told PTI, "The ED has indeed attached assets much more than the money due to the banks." Also read | Vijay Mallya loses bankruptcy petition amendment High Court battle in UK The ED, empowered to probe such cases under criminal sections of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), went on to attach and seize total assets worth Rs 18,170.02 crore in these two cases that included Rs 969 crore worth of properties "located" abroad. "The quantum of the attached and seized assets represent 80.45 per cent of the total bank loss of Rs 22,585.83 crore," the ED said. On Wednesday, out of these attached assets, the Debts Recovery Tribunal (DRT) on behalf of an SBI-led consortium that lent money to Mallya sold fresh shares worth Rs 5,824.50 crore of United Breweries Limited (UBL), the agency said. The DRT action came after the ED transferred the shares worth about Rs 6,624 crore of UBL attached by it to the SBI-led consortium on the directions of a special PMLA court that is hearing these cases in Mumbai. "Further realisation of Rs 800 crore by sale of these shares is expected by June 25," it added. Also read | Nirav Modi faces another setback as UK judge rules in India's favour The banks have earlier "recovered" Rs 1,357 crore by a similar sale of shares in the case against Mallya and his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines, the ED said. Another Rs 1,060 crore worth of assets were "restituted" to the banks earlier in the probe against Nirav Modi, they said. As of date, the ED said, assets worth Rs 9,041.5 crore, "representing 40 per cent of the total loss to the banks, have been handed over to public sector banks." "Thus, the banks shall be realising total amount of Rs 9,041.5 crore through sale of a part of assets attached/seized by ED under the PMLA," it said. In addition, official sources said, Rs 329.67 crore has been realised in the government exchequer after Modi's assets were confiscated in July last year after the 50-year-old diamantaire was declared a fugitive economic offender by a special court in Mumbai. The ED said the probe has "irrevocably proved" that the three used dummy entities controlled by them for rotation and siphoning off the funds provided by the banks. "The investigators had to pierce through the multi-layered corporate veil to find these assets that were held in exclusive possession." "It was a myriad web of domestic and international transactions and stashing of assets abroad," a senior officer said. The ED also got repatriated to the country assets like gold and diamond jewellery (of Modi and Choksi firms) from abroad to ensure they are not disposed off and are available to the banks and the government exchequer for seizure. The agency said, "a substantial part of these assets were held in the names of dummy entities, trusts, third persons, relatives of these accused and these entities were proxy of the three accused to hold these assets." It said the extradition of Mallya (65) "has been ordered by the Westminster Magistrates Court and confirmed by the UK High Court." Also read | Enforcement Directorate seizes Vijay Mallya’s asset in France worth $1.9 million "Since Mallya has been denied permission to file appeal in the UK Supreme Court, his extradition to India has become final," it added. It said Modi too has lost his extradition plea and has been in a London jail for the last 2.3 years. Choksi (62) had mysteriously gone missing on May 23 from Antigua and Barbuda, where he has been staying since 2018 as a citizen, and later surfaced in neighbouring Dominica from where India is trying to get him deported.

Enforcement Directorate says 40% loss in PNB, Mallya bank fraud cases recovered

The Indian authorities have described fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi as an Indian citizen in its affidavit filed in Dominican high court, saying that his application for renunciation of citizenship was 'rejected'.

India to Dominica court: Mehul Choksi is still an Indian citizen

"Mehul Choksi is an Indian citizen and his application for renunciation of Indian citizenship was rejected. He is erroneously claiming renunciation of the Indian Citizenship under the Citizenship Act, 1955," the affidavit said.

Mehul Choksi's claim of renouncing Indian citizenship bogus: India

mehul-choksi

Mehul Choksi, News on Mehul Choksi, stories on Mehul Choksi, articles on Mehul Choksi, Mehul Choksi stories at Wion, Mehul Choksi news, Mehul Choksi latest news

mehul choksi

'Had to happen': Former law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Mehul Choksi's arrest

India: PNB fraud accused Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium

Mehul Choksi: How a diamond tycoon became a wanted fugitive. The rise and ruin of the business magnate | WION Explains

Aware of the case: Belgium on fugitive Mehul Choksi

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, says reports

Fugitive Mehul Choksi reportedly living in Belgium amid extradition battle

Sitharaman lauds ED’s efforts in recovering assets from Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi

Sitharaman lauds ED’s efforts in recovering assets from Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi

India: Court dismisses Mehul Choksi’s pleas against ED’s move to declare him ‘fugitive’

Mehul Choksi wins case in Antigua & Barbuda, to be granted all legal options including appeals

Indian fugitive Mehul Choksi cannot be extradited, rules Antigua and Barbuda court

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi removed from Interpol Red Notice List

Mehul Choksi bribing officials to prolong extradition process: Reports

Fugitive diamond merchant Mehul Choksi bribing Antiguan officials, says report

Dominica withdraws illegal entry case against Mehul Choksi

CBI files another case against Mehul Choksi after raids

Who is Subhash Shankar Parab? Nirav Modi's close aide deported to India from Egypt

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi returns to Antigua after Dominica court lets him return for medical treatment

Dominican court grants interim bail to Mehul Choksi on medical grounds

Mehul Choksi says his arrest 'dictated by Indian govt', moves Dominica court

'Total nonsense': Dominica PM on claims that his government was involved in Choksi's abduction

Enforcement Directorate says 40% loss in PNB, Mallya bank fraud cases recovered

India to Dominica court: Mehul Choksi is still an Indian citizen

Mehul Choksi's claim of renouncing Indian citizenship bogus: India