Nirav Modi’s brother Nehal arrested in US after India’s extradition request

Nehal Modi, brother of fugitive businessman Nirav Modi, has been arrested in the United States in connection with a money laundering case following an extradition request made by Indian authorities. 

The arrest marks a significant success for India in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam case, as yet another accused has been apprehended.

Acting on a joint appeal by India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the US Department of Justice issued a Red Corner Notice against Belgian national Nehal and arrested him on Friday. Extradition proceedings have now begun in the United States.

Nehal is accused of playing a crucial role in laundering thousands of crores of black money earned through the PNB scam with the help of his brother, Nirav. He allegedly helped conceal illicit earnings and convert them into legal assets using shell companies and foreign transactions.

The US Justice Department has confirmed that Nehal was arrested at the request of the Indian government. He faces charges under Section 3 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, for attempting to legitimise illegally earned money through various channels. He is also charged under Sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy) and 201 (destruction of evidence) of the Indian Penal Code.

Meanwhile, fugitive Nirav is also facing extradition proceedings in the United Kingdom. The next hearing in Nehal’s extradition case is scheduled for July 17, 2025, during which a status review will take place. He may also apply for bail during the hearing. This arrest is being viewed as an important step forward for Indian investigative agencies.