The Belgian government has acknowledged the presence of fugitive Indian businessman Mehul Choksi within its borders and is closely monitoring the situation.
David Jordens, spokesperson for Belgium's Federal Public Service (FPS) Foreign Affairs, stated, "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."
Choksi, wanted in India for his alleged involvement in a ₹13,500-crore bank loan fraud case linked to Punjab National Bank, has reportedly been residing in Antwerp, Belgium, with his wife, Preeti Choksi, a Belgian citizen.
He is said to have obtained an 'F Residency Card' in Belgium, allegedly using misleading and fabricated documentation.
Also read: Mehul Choksi traced in Belgium, India moves for extradition
Earlier, Antigua and Barbuda's Foreign Minister, E.P. Chet Greene, confirmed that Choksi had left the island nation for medical treatment abroad but remains a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda.
Greene stated, "Mehul Choksi is not on the island, I am told he left Antigua for medical attention abroad. He remains a citizen of Antigua & Barbuda. Your Government and my Government are working together on this matter. We have some traditions in democracy. We both respect the rule of law."
Indian authorities have reportedly urged Belgium to initiate extradition proceedings against Choksi.
However, there has been no official confirmation from Indian officials regarding this request.
Choksi's nephew, Nirav Modi, who is also implicated in the same fraud case, is currently detained in London and is contesting his extradition to India.
The situation remains dynamic, with multiple countries' legal systems involved in addressing the allegations against Choksi.
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