Fugitive Banker Extradited: ₹77 Cr Fraud Accused Returns

Virendrabhai Manibhai Patel, a fugitive banker wanted in a massive financial fraud case, has been extradited from the United States to India through INTERPOL channels. Patel, the former Director of Charotar Nagrik Sahakari Bank, Anand, was detained at Ahmedabad airport upon arrival on January 29, 2025.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) coordinated closely with Gujarat Police and immigration authorities to facilitate Patel’s return. He was wanted in connection with a case registered in 2002 at Anand Town Police Station, involving charges of criminal breach of trust, forgery, criminal conspiracy, and cheating. Patel and other accused allegedly orchestrated a scam amounting to ₹77 crore.

On Gujarat Police’s request, the CBI secured a Red Notice against Patel from INTERPOL on March 3, 2004, alerting global law enforcement agencies about his fugitive status. After years of evading authorities, Patel was finally tracked and detained upon his arrival from the USA. A Gujarat Police team took him into custody at Ahmedabad airport for further legal proceedings.

As India’s National Central Bureau for INTERPOL, the CBI has been instrumental in facilitating the extradition of fugitives. Since 2021, more than 100 wanted criminals have been returned to India through INTERPOL’s global coordination efforts. Patel’s return marks another significant success in India’s pursuit of financial fugitives.

Authorities continue to intensify their crackdown on economic offenders, ensuring that those who defraud the public face justice, regardless of their location worldwide.