India’s Enforcement Directorate has launched a manhunt for the economic fraudster Mehul Choksi which have led them to Antigua, where apparently the fugitive has taken citizenship. A request has been made to Antigua and Barbuda government to intervene in the matter.
India was in touch with the island nation following reports of Choksi’s presence there and requested the authorities of Antigua to restrict his movements by land, sea and air.
“We would honour any ‘legitimate request’ from India to extradite him, provided there should not be the absence of a treaty stand in the way,” said in a statement from Antigua government.
It needs to be noted that India does not have a treaty with Antigua. Though the authorities have assured to help India in this matter.
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Mr Greene said, “However if a request is received, we will honor any legitimate request made of us notwithstanding that we do not have any extradition agreements with India.”
He also added that this is the extent of our commitment to preserving the integrity of our (Citizenship by Investment) programme,” reported The Daily Observer.
Mehul Choksi was granted Antigua’s citizenship in November 2017 under their controversial Citizenship Investment Program. Antigua had launched this programme a couple of years to tap into the global citizenship market estimated to be worth $2 billion. The holders of this passport can enjoy visa-free travel to approximately 132 countries, which includes Singapore, UK and the countries of the Schengen area.