Mehul Choksi Confirmed Living in Belgium Amid PNB Fraud Allegations

Fugitive diamond businessman Mehul Choksi, wanted in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case, has been confirmed to be living in Belgium. The country’s foreign ministry acknowledged his presence but declined to provide further details.

In a statement to NDTV, the ministry said, “We are aware of his presence and attach great importance and attention to it.” However, citing protocol, Belgium stated that it would not comment further on individual cases.

Choksi Reportedly Living in Antwerp with Wife

According to official sources, Mehul Choksi is currently residing in Antwerp, Belgium, with his wife Preeti Choksi. He has obtained a Belgian residency card. Previously, he was believed to be living in Antigua and Barbuda.

Notably, his wife Preeti holds Belgian citizenship, which may have influenced their relocation to Belgium. Choksi fled India in 2018 following the fraud accusations.

Belgian Authorities Aware, Avoid Detailed Remarks

News agency ANI also reported Choksi’s presence in Belgium. David Jordens, spokesperson for Belgium’s Federal Public Service (FPS) Foreign Affairs, confirmed awareness of the matter but reiterated the country’s position on not commenting on individual cases.

"This case falls under the competence of the FPS. We do not comment on individual cases," Jordens said.

Background: The ₹13,500 Crore PNB Scam

Mehul Choksi and his nephew, Nirav Modi, are accused of defrauding Punjab National Bank of ₹13,500 crore through fraudulent letters of undertaking. The scam was uncovered in 2018 at PNB’s Brady House branch in Mumbai.

Choksi is one of the key accused in the case and has been under investigation by both the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Nirav Modi Fighting Extradition in UK

Nirav Modi is currently detained in a London prison. He has been denied bail multiple times and is fighting extradition to India. Meanwhile, Choksi, after briefly going missing from Antigua in 2021, was returned there and now reportedly lives in Belgium.

Legal Proceedings and Investigations Continue

Both Choksi and Modi, along with their family members, employees, and certain bank officials, have been booked in the case. Investigations continue, as India pursues legal options to bring back the accused fugitives.

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