Fugitive Businessman Mehul Choksi Residing in Belgium, Extradition Sought by India

Mehul Choksi is reportedly living in Antwerp, Belgium, with his wife and has acquired a residency card. Indian authorities are seeking his extradition due to his involvement in a ₹13,500-crore bank fraud case connected to Punjab National Bank. Allegations suggest that he provided false documentation to obtain residency. His nephew, Nirav Modi, is contesting extradition in London.

Recent reports indicate that fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi is residing in Antwerp, Belgium, with his wife, Preeti Choksi. He allegedly acquired a residency card in Belgium, prompting Indian authorities to formally request his extradition. The situation remains unconfirmed by Indian official sources, according to Associated Times, a media outlet focused on Caribbean news.

Choksi, the owner of the Gitanjali Group, is a key figure in a ₹13,500-crore bank loan fraud case linked to the Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam. He and his nephew, Nirav Modi, allegedly defrauded the bank, leading to investigations by the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation in 2018. Choksi fled India in January 2018 and was previously reported to be living in Antigua and Barbuda before moving to Belgium, where his wife is a citizen.

In order to secure his residency in Belgium, Choksi reportedly provided misleading and fabricated documentation to authorities. He allegedly submitted false declarations, misrepresented his nationality, and failed to disclose his Indian and Antiguan citizenships. The report also suggests that he claims to be in Belgium for medical treatment at a prominent cancer hospital, speculating an attempt to evade extradition.

Nirav Modi, who is currently jailed in London, is fighting his extradition to India amidst ongoing legal challenges and has been denied bail multiple times. In May 2021, Choksi mysteriously disappeared from Antigua but was later located and returned.

In conclusion, Mehul Choksi’s alleged fraudulent activities have led to significant international legal implications, including a pending extradition request from India. His recent reports of residing in Belgium raise concerns over his efforts to avoid accountability regarding the PNB scam. The legal status of both Choksi and his nephew Nirav Modi continues to evolve, illustrating a complex web of financial crimes and international law.

Original Source: www.livemint.com