New Delhi: In a significant breakthrough, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) successfully coordinated the return of two fugitives, Suhail Basheer and Tofik Najir Khan, from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) through INTERPOL channels. Both individuals were wanted by Indian law enforcement agencies—Kerala Police and Gujarat Police, respectively—in separate criminal cases.
Suhail Basheer Arrested in Kerala Minor Rape Case
Suhail Basheer, a Red Notice subject, was brought back to India on April 2, 2025, following close coordination between the CBI’s International Police Cooperation Unit (IPCU), the National Central Bureau (NCB) of Abu Dhabi, and the Kerala Police.
Basheer was wanted in connection with Crime No. 1319/2023 registered at Muvattupuzha Police Station, Ernakulam Rural District, Kerala, under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. He had been evading arrest since the case was filed, involving allegations of raping a minor girl.
The CBI had secured an INTERPOL Red Notice against him on December 2, 2024, based on Kerala Police’s request. After being tracked down in the UAE, an escort team from Kerala Police brought him back via Cochin International Airport.
Tofik Najir Khan Extradited in Gujarat Forgery Case
In a parallel operation, the CBI facilitated the return of Tofik Najir Khan, another fugitive wanted by Gujarat Police in a case of criminal conspiracy, forgery, and cheating. The case was registered at Bavlu Police Station, Mehsana District, Gujarat.
Khan, also a Red Notice subject, was deported from the UAE and handed over to a Gujarat Police team upon arrival at Cochin International Airport on April 2, 2025. The CBI had obtained the INTERPOL Red Notice against him on February 25, 2025, following Gujarat Police’s request.
CBI’s Role in International Fugitive Tracking
The CBI, serving as India’s National Central Bureau for INTERPOL, plays a pivotal role in coordinating with global law enforcement agencies to track and extradite wanted criminals. Red Notices, issued by INTERPOL, are circulated worldwide to help locate and apprehend fugitives.
In recent years, the CBI has facilitated the return of over 100 fugitives to India through INTERPOL channels, reinforcing its commitment to international police cooperation.
This successful operation highlights the effective collaboration between Indian and UAE authorities, ensuring that accused individuals face justice in India.
