Fugitive diamond trader Mehul Choksi, who is wanted in India for a huge bank scam, has been arrested in Belgium. His arrest happened after Indian agencies like the CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) and ED (Enforcement Directorate) requested his extradition.
Why Was He Arrested?
Choksi is one of the main accused in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam, where over Rs 13,000 crore was allegedly defrauded. The case against him mainly focuses on his role in a Rs 6,095 crore fraud. He is accused of using fake bank guarantees and forged documents to cheat the bank.
Indian courts had issued non-bailable warrants against him, and officials had been trying to bring him back since he fled India in 2018.
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When and Where Was He Arrested?
Sources say Mehul Choksi was arrested on April 12 from a hospital in Belgium, where he was reportedly getting treatment for blood cancer. He had been living in Belgium for the last six months. His arrest came just before he was planning to go to Switzerland for more treatment.
What Happened Before the Arrest?
In September 2024, Indian authorities officially requested Choksi’s extradition. His lawyers argued that he was too sick to travel. But Indian officials pointed out that if he could travel from Antigua to Belgium, he could also return to India for treatment.
Choksi had earlier been protected by an Interpol Red Corner Notice, but even after that notice was removed, the CBI and ED continued pushing for his return.
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What Happens Next?
Currently, Choksi is in a detention centre in Belgium. His legal team is expected to apply for bail soon, possibly using his health issues as a reason. He may also mention a past “kidnapping attempt” in Antigua as part of his legal strategy.
The process to bring Mehul Choksi back to India may take time. Even if he gets bail, Indian officials believe he won’t be allowed to return to Antigua. If extradition takes too long, India may also consider deportation as another option.
Summary
- Mehul Choksi has been arrested in Belgium after India requested his extradition.
- He is accused in the Rs 13,000 crore PNB scam, with Rs 6,095 crore linked directly to him.
- He was arrested from a hospital while being treated for blood cancer.
- Indian agencies are hopeful of bringing him back, though legal challenges are expected.
