Media reports India looking to extradite wanted diamond tycoon from Belgium

(MENAFN) Indian fugitive and diamond businessman Mehul Choksi has been detained in Belgium, according to media reports. Choksi, who is accused of involvement in a $1.8 billion loan fraud case alongside his nephew Nirav Modi, was taken into custody near his home in Antwerp. The fraud is linked to one of India’s largest state-owned banks and is being investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Belgium’s Federal Public Service of Justice confirmed his detention on Monday and stated that Choksi has access to legal counsel while awaiting further judicial proceedings. Belgian authorities also confirmed receiving an official extradition request from India. His case is expected to be heard in Belgian courts next week.

Choksi, now an Antiguan citizen, reportedly gained Belgian residency in November 2023 through marriage to a Belgian national. Previously, he had cited health issues—specifically chronic lymphocytic leukemia—as a reason he was unable to travel, submitting related documents to a Mumbai court earlier this year.

This is not the first extradition attempt by India. In 2021, a Dominican court rejected India's request after Choksi alleged he had been abducted and assaulted by individuals allegedly working for the Indian government. Interpol later removed a Red Notice against him, with his legal team claiming human rights violations and political persecution.

Choksi’s Belgian lawyer, Simon Bekaert, said they would contest the extradition, arguing that Choksi wouldn’t get a fair trial in India. While the Indian Ministry of External Affairs declined to comment, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal attributed Choksi’s arrest to effective diplomatic efforts. Legal experts, however, predict a lengthy process ahead, despite India and Belgium having signed an extradition treaty in 2020.

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