Was a Fugitive Wanted for Murder Extradited from the US in a Dramatic CBI-Led Operation?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Feb 10 (NationPress) In a remarkable achievement for global law enforcement collaboration, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), working closely with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), successfully facilitated the extradition of the wanted fugitive Sombir Motta from the United States to India on Tuesday, according to a CBI statement.
Sombir Motta, who is sought by Haryana Police in connection with a murder case that involved firearms, was turned over to Indian authorities upon his arrival.
Officials from Haryana Police promptly took custody of the alleged criminal following his deportation, and he is anticipated to appear in court in Haryana for further legal action.
This significant development followed the CBI’s persistent efforts, which resulted in securing an INTERPOL Red Notice against Motta on February 11, 2025, at the behest of Haryana Police. The Red Notice serves as a global alert circulated among law enforcement agencies worldwide, identifying Motta as a wanted fugitive and allowing for his tracking across international borders.
As India’s National Central Bureau for INTERPOL, the CBI engaged extensively with the National Central Bureau (NCB) in Washington to locate the fugitive and ensure his deportation.
This successful extradition emphasizes the efficacy of INTERPOL's channels in tracking and repatriating high-profile criminals. According to CBI officials, Motta had fled India to escape arrest following his alleged involvement in serious criminal activities.
The case illustrates the increasing utilization of international mechanisms to return economic offenders, terrorists, and violent criminals who seek asylum abroad.
In recent years, the CBI has been instrumental in repatriating over 150 wanted criminals through INTERPOL cooperation, frequently in partnership with Bharatpol—the domestic platform that connects Indian law enforcement with global networks. These operations have targeted individuals accused of murder, fraud, money laundering, and other serious crimes.
The Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs provided essential diplomatic and logistical backing throughout the process, ensuring smooth execution.
Officials characterized the deportation as a reflection of strengthened bilateral relations between India and the United States in the fight against transnational crime.
The return of Sombir Motta is anticipated to provide significant impetus to the ongoing Haryana Police investigation and deliver justice to the victim's family.
Authorities reaffirmed their dedication to relentlessly pursuing fugitives, regardless of their hiding locations, and to leveraging global partnerships to uphold the rule of law.