Mehul Choksi, the fugitive businessman wanted in India for his alleged role in a massive Rs 13,500 crore bank fraud case, is reportedly living in Belgium’s Antwerp along with his wife, Preeti Choksi. As per a report by Associated Times, Choksi has obtained a legal residency status in Belgium and has raised fresh concerns about his extradition.
Residency acquired by submitting fake documents
The report claims that Choksi has acquired an ‘’F Residency Card’’ in Belgium by providing forged documents and has hidden crucial details regarding his nationality and earlier citizenship.
The outlet, citing anonymous sources, has stated Choksi has misrepresented himself in official documents and has not disclosed his India and Antiguan national ties. According to a PTI report, his wife is a Belgian national which may have further helped him in applying for a residency application.
The Indian government has reportedly contacted the Belgian authorities and has officially requested extradition proceedings for bringing Choksi back to face charges in India. However, there has been no immediate confirmation made by the Indian officials related to the status of this request or any diplomatic talks.
The report also highlights that Choksi may be planning to shift once again. This time may be to Switzerland on grounds of medical treatment at a famous cancer facility. This probable move could further complicate the legal efforts to get him back.
PNB Fraud case of Rs 13,500 crore
Choksi and his nephew Nirav Modi are the main accused in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case, one of India’s biggest banking scams. Both of them have been alleged to have used fraudulent Letters of Undertakings to siphoned public funds of Rs 13,500 crore. While Modi continues to be in custody in a UK prison and continues to challenge his extradition. Choksi had earlier been staying in Antigua and Barbuda before going missing in May 2021. He was later found and returned to the island nation.
(With inputs from PTI)