Indian agencies to expedite extradition of India’s three most-wanted fugitives

The individuals in question are defense dealer Sanjay Bhandari, diamond trader Nirav Modi, and Kingfisher Airlines promoter Vijay Mallya

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A high-level delegation, comprising officials from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Enforcement Directorate (ED), and National Investigation Agency (NIA), is set to embark on a mission to the United Kingdom to expedite the extradition process of three of India’s most-wanted fugitives, according to a report by Times of India.

The individuals in question are defense dealer Sanjay Bhandari, diamond trader Nirav Modi, and Kingfisher Airlines promoter Vijay Mallya.

The primary objective of the team is to fast-track the extradition proceedings and seize the “proceeds of crime” associated with these fugitives. Efforts are underway to locate their properties not only in the UK but also in other nations. The team, led by a senior officer from the foreign ministry, aims to collaborate with UK authorities to gather crucial information regarding the assets and banking transactions of the fugitives.

Sanjay Bhandari, who fled to the UK in 2016, had his extradition approved by the British government in January of the previous year, following requests from the ED and CBI. Bhandari is alleged to possess undisclosed foreign income and assets, including properties in London. Notably, he is reported to be a close associate of Robert Vadra, the husband of Priyanka Gandhi.

The Indian High Commission in London has facilitated discussions with UK authorities to secure pending information related to the assets and financial transactions of these fugitives in London. The coordinated efforts aim to strengthen the case for extradition and ensure that justice is served.

Nirav Modi, arrested in 2019 on extradition warrants, faces charges from both the CBI and ED. Despite losing a legal battle against extradition in 2022, ongoing proceedings and a confidential asylum application have created uncertainty about the timeline for his return to India. Three sets of criminal proceedings against Nirav Modi in India relate to fraud, money laundering, and interference with evidence and witnesses.

Vijay Mallya, accused in a ₹9,000 crore bank loan default case involving Kingfisher Airlines, remains in the UK. The team’s efforts will focus on obtaining information about Mallya’s assets, including properties valued at ₹330 crore in England and France. Declared a ‘fugitive’ by a Mumbai court in 2019, Mallya faces allegations of purchasing properties during a period when Kingfisher Airlines was experiencing financial difficulties.

The Indian High Commission in London has facilitated discussions with UK authorities to secure pending information related to the assets and financial transactions of these fugitives in London. The coordinated efforts aim to strengthen the case for extradition and ensure that justice is served.

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