Mehul Choksi’s story: New chapter of judicial proceedings begins in Belgium
The story of fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi has come to a new turn. He was arrested in Belgium on April 12, 2025, at the request of Indian authorities. Belgium’s federal public service of justice confirmed that Choksi has been detained for “further judicial proceedings”, and access to his legal counsel has also been ensured.
Drama of arrest begins in Belgium
Belgian authorities said, “Indian authorities have submitted an extradition request, and now Choksi’s case is being prepared for the next judicial process.” This is a significant development, especially since Choksi has been making international headlines because of the PNB scam.
Choksi left Antigua and Barbuda last year and was living in Belgium since then. Indian authorities, who are investigating the ₹13,000 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam, were active for his extradition. The CBI had requested his arrest last year and later submitted an extradition request.
Background of PNB Scam
The PNB scam shook the Indian financial system. In this, Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi together scammed ₹13,000 crore through fraudulent transactions. After the scam was uncovered, both businessmen left India. When Nirav Modi was arrested in London, Choksi’s extradition became a priority for India.
Process of Extradition from Belgium
The process of extradition is not easy, and legal hurdles are expected in this case as well. As of now, Belgium’s judicial system has detained Choksi, and a decision on the extradition request will be taken in the next few months. This could be a major achievement for the Indian authorities if Choksi is brought back to India, where he can be tried on charges of PNB scam.
Conclusion
Mehul Choksi’s arrest is a reminder that the justice system has reach even across international borders. It remains to be seen whether his extradition from Belgium is successful or not. But one thing is certain—the fight for justice has just begun.