- 15-Oct-2025
- public international law
India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) share a robust extradition framework, facilitating the return of fugitives involved in various criminal activities. Over recent years, several high-profile cases have underscored the effectiveness of this bilateral cooperation.
In August 2024, Tarsem Singh, a key associate of designated terrorist Lakhbir Singh Landa, was extradited from the UAE. Singh was wanted by India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) for his involvement with the banned outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). He was arrested in Abu Dhabi in November 2023 and brought to India following due legal processes facilitated by Interpol channels .
Dipakkumar Thakkar, an alleged kingpin of an international illegal gambling and hawala racket, was extradited from Dubai in August 2024. He was wanted in Gujarat for operating illegal stock market trading and gambling activities amounting to over ₹2,273 crore. His extradition followed the issuance of an Interpol Red Corner Notice and coordination between Indian agencies and UAE authorities .
In September 2024, Muniyad Ali Khan, a key operator in an international gold smuggling network, was extradited from the UAE. He was implicated in a 2020 gold smuggling case involving the concealment of gold bars in emergency light batteries. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) coordinated with Interpol to secure his return to India .
Christian Michel, a British national, was extradited from Dubai in December 2018 in connection with the AgustaWestland VVIP helicopter bribery case. He was accused of facilitating kickbacks in a ₹3,600 crore deal. His extradition followed a legal battle in UAE courts, culminating in a ruling by the Dubai Appeal Court approving the request based on the Criminal Extradition Accord between India and the UAE .
Extradition Treaty: India and the UAE signed an extradition treaty in 1999, outlining procedures for the transfer of fugitives involved in serious crimes. This treaty has been instrumental in facilitating the return of individuals wanted by Indian authorities.
Legal Procedures: The extradition process involves the issuance of Red Corner Notices by Interpol, legal proceedings in UAE courts, and adherence to bilateral agreements. Challenges include legal defenses raised by accused individuals, such as claims of political persecution or inadequate evidence.
Diplomatic Cooperation: Successful extraditions often require robust diplomatic engagement between India and the UAE, ensuring alignment of legal and procedural frameworks.
Consider the case of Muniyad Ali Khan. In 2020, Indian authorities seized 18.5 kg of gold bars at Jaipur International Airport, leading to an investigation by the NIA. Khan was identified as a key operator in the smuggling network. After efforts to locate him, he was found in the UAE. Through Interpol channels and coordination with UAE authorities, Khan was extradited to India in September 2024. Upon arrival, he was arrested by the NIA and is currently facing charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
India's extradition cooperation with the UAE has led to the successful return of several fugitives involved in serious criminal activities. While challenges persist, the legal and diplomatic frameworks in place continue to facilitate the enforcement of justice across borders.
Answer By Law4u Team
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