India Brings Back 274 Fugitive Criminals from 36 Countries Since 2019, Strengthens Global Extradition Network
By Suman Munshi
Chief Editor, IBG NEWS
New Delhi, August 4: India has significantly expanded its efforts to track, extradite and prosecute fugitive criminals over the past several years, with 274 wanted offenders brought back from 36 countries between 2019 and July 2026, according to information released by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The initiative has been supported by enhanced international cooperation, technology-driven investigations, stronger legal provisions and coordinated action among multiple enforcement agencies.
According to the government, a comprehensive strategy has been developed to tackle fugitive offenders through global law enforcement partnerships, inter-agency coordination and diplomatic engagement. The objective is to strengthen national security, improve law enforcement capabilities and ensure that individuals accused of serious crimes face judicial proceedings in India.
Legal Framework Strengthened
The government’s anti-fugitive framework has been reinforced through several legislative and institutional measures. Amendments to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in 2019 expanded investigative powers in terrorism-related cases. More recently, provisions incorporated into the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) introduced the possibility of conducting trials in absentia in specified circumstances involving absconding accused persons.
Technology and International Cooperation
The Ministry highlighted the increasing use of technology in tracing fugitives through Operation Trishul, which employs satellite-based inputs, surveillance systems and digital footprint analysis to locate accused persons who may have altered their identities while residing abroad. Authorities also noted that video conferencing has been increasingly used to expedite legal proceedings connected with extradition cases.
India has also strengthened cooperation with the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL). In January 2025, the BHARATPOL platform was launched to digitally connect more than 1,400 State and Central law enforcement units, reducing the time required for international information sharing and improving coordination during investigations.
Increase in Red Corner Notices
Government data indicate a substantial increase in the number of INTERPOL Red Corner Notices issued in recent years. During the last three years alone, notices have been issued against 401 fugitive criminals, reflecting a more proactive international approach to locating and apprehending wanted individuals.
Financial Action Against Economic Offenders
Authorities also reported intensified enforcement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Between 2019 and 2026, assets valued at approximately ₹17,874 crore linked to fugitive criminals were attached, while restitution amounting to about ₹18,762 crore was carried out in cases involving economic offenders.
Range of Crimes Covered
The extradited or returned fugitives are accused in a wide spectrum of offences, including terrorism, organised crime, financial fraud, murder, narcotics trafficking, cybercrime, human trafficking, sexual offences and crimes under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Official figures show that 274 fugitives were brought back during the period from 2019 to July 2026.
Multi-Agency Coordination
The Ministry stated that the campaign relies on close coordination among the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), National Investigation Agency (NIA), Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), Enforcement Directorate (ED), Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Directorate General of Goods and Services Tax Intelligence (DGGI) and State Police forces. In January 2026, a Standing Focus Group under the Multi Agency Centre (MAC) was also established to prioritise fugitive cases, standardise documentation and strengthen coordination with international partners.
The Ministry said the evolving framework is aimed at improving India’s ability to pursue fugitives across jurisdictions while ensuring that those accused of serious offences are brought before Indian courts through established legal and diplomatic processes.
