Mehul Choksi, a prominent figure in India's diamond industry, became a household name for the wrong reasons when he was implicated in the massive ₹13,500 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud in 2018. Accused alongside his nephew Nirav Modi, Choksi fled India just before the scandal broke, seeking refuge in Antigua and Barbuda by acquiring citizenship through its investment program. His initial escape led to a complex international manhunt, with Indian authorities striving to bring him back to face justice.

A Close Call in Dominica: The 2021 Setback

In 2021, Choksi's mysterious appearance in Dominica, after allegedly being abducted from Antigua, presented India with a potential opportunity for extradition. However, the absence of an extradition treaty between India and Dominica, coupled with Choksi's claims of abduction and torture, complicated the situation. Despite India's efforts, the attempt to repatriate him from Dominica ultimately failed, highlighting the challenges of international legal processes.

Strategic Surveillance: CBI's Persistent Pursuit

Undeterred by previous setbacks, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) intensified its efforts to track Choksi. Utilizing its Global Operations Centre (GOC), the agency monitored his movements and, in July 2024, located him in Antwerp, Belgium, where he was reportedly undergoing medical treatment. Recognizing Belgium's longstanding extradition treaty with India, the CBI saw a renewed opportunity to bring Choksi back to face charges.

Building the Case: Legal Framework and International Cooperation

On August 27, 2024, the CBI submitted a comprehensive extradition request to Belgium's Federal Public Service of Justice. The dossier included detailed evidence of Choksi's alleged crimes, such as embezzlement, destruction of evidence, corruption, and forgery. The charges were framed under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act. To strengthen the request, the CBI also invoked international conventions like the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) and the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), to which Belgium is a signatory.

Diplomatic Engagement: India's Outreach to Belgian Authorities

Understanding the importance of diplomatic channels, the CBI dispatched teams to Belgium twice in 2024 to engage directly with Belgian officials. These visits aimed to clarify legal aspects, address any concerns, and emphasize the gravity of Choksi's alleged offenses. The Belgian authorities, after thorough examination, acknowledged the principle of dual criminality—that the offenses Choksi is accused of are crimes in both India and Belgium—thereby validating the extradition request.

The Arrest in Antwerp: A Milestone in the Pursuit

Acting on India's request, Belgian law enforcement authorities arrested Mehul Choksi in Antwerp on April 12, 2025. This arrest marked a significant breakthrough in India's efforts to bring the fugitive businessman to justice. The arrest not only underscored the effectiveness of persistent international collaboration but also signaled a turning point in the high-profile case.

Awaiting Extradition: The Road Ahead

With Choksi now in custody, the focus shifts to the extradition proceedings. Given the established legal frameworks and the evidence presented, Indian authorities are optimistic about a favorable outcome. The successful extradition of Mehul Choksi would not only serve as a testament to India's commitment to combating financial fraud but also reinforce the importance of international cooperation in addressing transnational crimes.