How did CBI successfully retrieve wanted narcotics smuggler from UAE?
Synopsis
The successful retrieval of fugitive Ritik Bajaj by the CBI from the UAE showcases a significant collaboration between law enforcement agencies, raising important questions about international crime and justice.
Key Takeaways
CBI's success in extraditing fugitives .
Collaboration between international law enforcement agencies .
Continued efforts against narcotics smuggling .
Importance of red notices in tracking fugitives .
Growing number of repatriated criminals to India .
New Delhi, Dec 23 (NationPress) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), in partnership with the ministries of External Affairs and Home Affairs, has adeptly facilitated the return of the sought fugitive Ritik Bajaj from the UAE on Tuesday, according to officials.
The individual, Ritik Bajaj (Red Notice Control No. A-14700/10-2025), is being pursued by Delhi Police for charges linked to the smuggling and distribution of narcotic substances.
"The subject fled from India and was tracked to the UAE through the efforts of NCB-New Delhi," stated the CBI in its press release.
The agency further mentioned that it had issued a red notice against Ritik Bajaj via INTERPOL on October 9, following a request from the Delhi Police.
"The CBI worked in conjunction with NCB Bangkok, which provided information regarding the subject's travel towards the UAE. Subsequently, the CBI coordinated with NCB Abu Dhabi to pinpoint the subject's location," it added.
Importantly, a team from the Delhi Police traveled to the UAE to escort the fugitive back, successfully returning to India on Tuesday.
As the National Central Bureau for INTERPOL in India, the CBI collaborates with all Law Enforcement Agencies across the country through BHARATPOL for support via INTERPOL channels.
Significantly, over 150 wanted criminals have been repatriated to India in recent years through these INTERPOL collaborations.
Earlier in September, the CBI, in collaboration with Haryana Police, MEA, and MHA, successfully managed the return of another wanted fugitive, Mainpal Dhilla, also known as Sonu Kumar.
Mainpal Dhilla, a notorious criminal, is wanted by Haryana Police for several offenses.
He was sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, attempted murder, illegal possession of firearms, and criminal conspiracy on March 29, 2013, in a case registered under FIR No. 276 dated September 26, 2007, at Police Station Sadar Bahadurgarh.
Previously, he had been convicted in two additional cases. While serving his sentence, he was granted a six-week parole from Hisar Central Jail on July 17, 2018.
"He was required to return to jail by August 29, 2018, but he failed to report back and went into hiding," the agency reported earlier.
The CBI noted that it published a red notice against Mainpal Dhilla through INTERPOL on November 11, 2024, upon request from Haryana Police.
Following this, the CBI contacted NCB Bangkok to locate the subject, which indicated his travel from Thailand to Cambodia.
Point of View
I must emphasize the importance of international cooperation in law enforcement. The successful return of fugitives like Ritik Bajaj not only highlights the effectiveness of agencies like the CBI but also raises awareness about the ongoing fight against drug smuggling that affects nations globally.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How did the CBI coordinate Bajaj's return?
The CBI coordinated with INTERPOL and various National Central Bureaus to track and retrieve Bajaj from the UAE.
What role does INTERPOL play in such operations?
INTERPOL facilitates international police cooperation, enabling agencies to share information and resources effectively.
Are there other criminals returned to India recently?
Yes, over 150 wanted criminals have been successfully returned to India through INTERPOL collaborations in recent years.
What previous cases has the CBI handled successfully?
The CBI recently coordinated the return of another fugitive, Mainpal Dhilla, in collaboration with Haryana Police.
