Sat Mar 22 14:35:37 UTC 2025: ## Fugitive Indian Businessman Mehul Choksi Surfaces in Belgium, India Seeks Extradition

**Brussels/New Delhi** – Mehul Choksi, the Indian businessman wanted for his alleged role in a massive Rs 13,850 crore (approximately $1.68 billion USD) fraud against Punjab National Bank (PNB), has been located in Antwerp, Belgium. Indian authorities have reportedly contacted their Belgian counterparts to initiate his extradition back to India.

Choksi, who holds citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda, had previously been believed to be residing in Antigua. However, Antigua’s Foreign Minister recently confirmed he left the island for medical treatment. According to reports from *Associates Times*, Choksi is currently living in Belgium on an F-residency permit obtained in November 2023, facilitated by his Belgian wife, Preeti Choksi.

The *Associates Times* report alleges Choksi used misleading documents to secure residency and potentially avoid extradition. His residency, if upgraded to permanent status, could grant him freedom of movement within Europe, complicating India’s efforts to bring him back. Speculation suggests he may even relocate to Switzerland for cancer treatment.

Choksi, who fled India in January 2018, maintains he is not a fugitive economic offender, citing reasons beyond his control for his inability to return. This claim comes after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) filed an application to declare him a fugitive and seize his assets. The ED has already recovered or sold assets worth Rs 22,280 crore (approximately $2.84 billion USD) from individuals involved in similar cases.

Choksi’s case mirrors that of his nephew, Nirav Modi, another key figure in the PNB scandal who is currently fighting extradition from Britain. The ongoing legal battles highlight the challenges India faces in bringing these fugitives to justice and recovering the defrauded funds. The Indian government is determined to secure Choksi’s return and bring him to trial.

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