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Synopsis

A high-level delegation from the United Kingdom (UK) visited the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) headquarters in New Delhi on Monday, April 15, 2024. Talks were held to accelerate mutual legal assistance and prioritize extradition requests for Indian fugitives, including Vijay Mallya, Sanjay Bhandari, and Nirav Modi, who are currently residing in the UK. 

According to a statement from the CBI spokesperson, the delegation comprised Stephen Kavanagh, Executive Director of Police Services at INTERPOL and the UK's nominee for the position of Secretary General of INTERPOL; Christina Scott, Acting High Commissioner of the UK to India; Robert Holness from the UK National Crime Agency; and Sorrel Evans from the UK Home Office.

During the visit, CBI Director Praveen Sood and other senior officials discussed with Kavanagh ways to enhance operational collaboration between India and the UK in combating various transnational threats, including financial crimes, terrorism, and cybercrime.

The CBI spokesperson stated that both sides affirmed their dedication to addressing global crime threats through coordinated and effective measures, utilizing INTERPOL channels.

“It was reiterated to strengthen bilateral ties and work closely together to address common security challenges effectively including the need for expediting mutual legal assistance and prioritization of extradition requests relating to fugitives,” they added.

It is to be noted that Indian agencies are actively seeking the extradition of several Khalistani separatists and wanted terrorist sympathizers based in the UK.

The visit marks a significant step towards strengthening international cooperation between the UK and India in combating transnational crime, the statement read.