New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has brought back 134 fugitives from abroad in the last five years, nearly double the number repatriated during the entire decade from 2010 to 2019, officials said.
Working closely with Interpol and central and state enforcement agencies, the CBI has secured the extradition or deportation of these fugitives since 2020, including 23 who have been brought back so far this year.
In comparison, only 74 fugitives were brought back between 2010 and 2019. Officials attributed the rise in successful repatriations to enhanced diplomatic activities, India’s outreach through VVIP visits, improved bilateral ties, technological advancements, and better coordination with Interpol.
Extradition typically involves the issuance of a red notice by Interpol, locating the fugitive, and completing legal and diplomatic processes, all of which are time-consuming.
In January, the CBI launched its digital portal BharatPol to reduce the time taken by Interpol to issue red notices. The portal, developed internally, connects Indian police agencies with Interpol and alerts all 195 member countries about fugitives wanted in India.
“The portal has ensured better documentation, which used to take a lot of time,” an official said.
A recent breakthrough under this coordinated effort was the arrest of Nehal Modi in the US. Nehal, the brother of Nirav Modi, who is currently in the UK, is lodged in the US and awaiting extradition.
Nirav Modi, along with his uncle Mehul Choksi, is accused of defrauding the Punjab National Bank of Rs 13,000 crore through fraudulent Letters of Undertaking.
