Belgium Says 'Aware' Of Fugitive Mehul Choksi's Presence In Country: 'Monitoring Case Closely'
The Belgian government is closely monitoring the case of fugitive Mehul Choksi. Choksi, who is accused of embezzling Rs 13,500 crore from Punjab National Bank, is currently living in Belgium.
The Belgian government is keeping a close eye on the case of fugitive Mehul Choksi and is making sure that it is given significant consideration.
When David Jordens, Spokesperson and Head of Service for social media and press at Belgium's Federal Public Service (FPS) Foreign Affairs, was asked about the possible presence of Choksi in his country, he said, "I can confirm that the Federal Public Service (FPS) Foreign Affairs is aware of this case and attaches great importance and attention to it. However, we do not comment on individual cases. Furthermore, this case falls under the competence of the Federal Public Service Justice", news agency ANI quoted Jordens.
Without providing any additional information regarding the whereabouts of Choksi, Jordens also assured that FPS Foreign Affairs is still carefully monitoring the developments surrounding the Choksi's case.
Meanwhile, Indian officials have requested the Belgian authorities to initiate his extradition to India, news website Associate Times reported.
Choksi is currently living in Belgium's Antwerp with his wife, Preeti Choksi, after obtaining a 'residency card' in the country.
Reportedly, Choksi's wife, a Belgian citizen, helped him gain residency in Belgium and a F Residency Card on November 15, 2023. Choksi has submitted false and deceptive documents to get residency in Belgium and to further evade extradition to India.
Additionally, the report said that Choksi might be preparing to move once more. The reason for this trip could be to Switzerland for medical care at a renowned cancer centre. It is possible that this action will make the legal battle to get him back even more difficult.
It was believed that Choksi resided in Antigua & Barbuda prior to his journey to Belgium.
Choksi & Nirav Modi Siphoned Off Rs 13,500 Cr
It has been reported that Choksi and his nephew Nirav Modi used fictitious letters of undertaking to embezzle Rs 13,500 crore in public funds from the state-run Punjab National Bank (PNB).
Following several court refusals of bail, Nirav Modi, who is currently incarcerated in London, is appealing his extradition to India.
Choksi disappeared from Antigua in May 2021 but was eventually located and brought back.
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