New Delhi: Following the arrest of fugitive Indian businessman Mehul Choksi in Belgium, Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam whistle-blower Hariprasad SV has expressed doubt over the possibility of bringing Choksi back to India easily, stating that he would use top lawyers in Europe to stall the process.

Speaking to the media, Hariprasad referred to previous instances where Choksi had evaded similar situations, particularly in Dominica.

"Extradition is not an easy task. Choksi's wallet is full, and he will employ the best lawyers in Europe to avoid the process like what Vijay Mallya has been doing. I don't think it is going to be easy for India to get him back," he said.

Choksi previously escaped legal action

Hariprasad also recalled the time Choksi managed to escape from legal proceedings in island nations such as Antigua and Dominica.

"When he was caught in Antigua (Dominica) and other islands, he could manage to get out of it because he has a fleet of lawyers. But I wish and hope that this time, the Indian government will succeed," he added.

He further mentioned that Choksi had defrauded at least 100 franchise owners, many of whom had filed legal complaints in different parts of India.

"Even I got his arrest warrant from Bangalore police, but nothing really happened as he was smart enough to get away from the clutches of law," he said.

Legal and financial strength 

Hariprasad noted that although India's legal system is strong, the success of the extradition depends on the cooperation of the country involved.

"The legal system in India is undoubtedly very great, but the extradition process depends on the country we are dealing with. This case is not going to be easy, as he has so much money," he stated.

Hariprasad had first alerted authorities about potential financial irregularities on 26 July 2016, when he wrote to the Prime Minister's Office, warning of a large-scale scam. He flagged suspicious indicators in the balance sheets that hinted at fraudulent activity.

Meanwhile, sources have confirmed that Choksi was arrested in Belgium on Saturday after local authorities verified his presence. Arrangements are reportedly being made for his extradition to India.

However, Choksi is said to be preparing for a legal battle. His defence team is planning to seek bail and will oppose the extradition request. The team argues that Choksi has valid reasons to resist extradition, including health concerns.

The 65-year-old diamond trader fled India on 2 January 2018. He is wanted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for his alleged involvement in defrauding Punjab National Bank of Rs 13,850 crore. His nephew, Nirav Modi, is also accused in the same case.