NEW DELHI – In a dramatic escalation of India’s pursuit of economic fugitives, Nehal Modi, the elusive brother of disgraced diamond merchant Nirav Modi, is now firmly in the crosshairs of Indian and U.S. authorities. While there’s arrest confirmed, enforcement agencies say it’s only a matter of time before the $2 billion PNB scam co-conspirator is brought to book.
Backed by an Interpol Red Corner Notice, the Indian government has formally requested Nehal’s extradition from the U.S. — a move that could deliver a serious blow to one of the country’s most high-profile financial crime families.
Key Player in India’s Biggest Bank Heist
Nehal Modi isn’t just the brother of Nirav Modi — he’s a suspected enabler, accused of helping launder massive sums looted from Punjab National Bank through forged Letters of Undertaking. Investigators allege Nehal played a crucial international role in masking the money trail, destroying evidence, and setting up shell operations abroad.
“He’s not on the sidelines. He was deeply embedded in the operation,” a senior ED officer told The New Indian.
Diamond Fraud in New York Adds to His Tally
Adding to his criminal résumé, Nehal Modi was criminally charged in New York in 2020 for defrauding a luxury diamond firm of $2.6 million. Prosecutors alleged he sold off diamonds on credit without returning proceeds — a mirror tactic to what ED believes happened in the Indian scam.
That case is still pending final disposition, but U.S. agencies have been aware of his financial misconduct for years.
Nirav in UK Jail, Nehal in US Sights — India Cracks Down
With Nirav Modi languishing in a London prison fighting extradition on mental health grounds, Indian agencies are determined not to let Nehal slip away. The government’s renewed diplomatic offensive against financial fugitives has seen early wins, and Nehal’s capture would be a headline victory.
“This is not just about money. This is about sending a message — India will not let looters hide abroad,” said an official from the Ministry of External Affairs.
Pressure Builds on US to Respond
Despite a clear paper trail, Nehal Modi has so far avoided arrest. But pressure is mounting. With the extradition request officially lodged and Interpol’s red alert in place, Indian officials are expecting U.S. agencies to act.
“Either he faces trial in New York, or he gets shipped back to Mumbai,” a source close to the investigation said.
Nehal Modi’s safe haven is shrinking. With a red notice chasing him and extradition looming, India’s message to white-collar fugitives is clear: Run, but you can’t hide forever.
