A key accused wanted in a multi-million investment fraud case has been brought back to India from Fiji in a major international enforcement operation coordinated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The agency, working with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Maharashtra Police, and Fijian authorities, secured the return of Rahul Shamrao Kalokhe, who was allegedly absconding after defrauding investors through fraudulent investment schemes.
According to officials, Kalokhe was wanted in connection with a large-scale investment fraud in which he and his associates allegedly persuaded people to invest money by promising exceptionally high and guaranteed returns. Investigators claim that numerous investors deposited substantial sums into various investment schemes after being assured of lucrative profits.
The investigating agencies allege that after collecting large amounts of money from investors, the accused and his associates dishonestly misappropriated the funds for personal gain. As complaints mounted and the investigation gathered pace, Kalokhe allegedly fled India to evade legal proceedings and avoid arrest.
Following a request from the Maharashtra Police, the CBI initiated the process of issuing an INTERPOL Red Notice against the accused. After the notice was circulated through INTERPOL channels, international law enforcement agencies coordinated efforts to trace his whereabouts. Authorities eventually located him in Fiji, where he was detained by local officials.
The CBI said that after the completion of all required legal and diplomatic procedures between India and Fiji, arrangements were made for his return. A special CBI escort team travelled to Fiji, completed the necessary formalities, and accompanied the accused back to India. The team arrived in the country with Kalokhe on July 30, after which he was expected to be produced before the appropriate investigating agency and the competent court.
Investigators believe that his custodial interrogation could provide crucial information about the alleged investment network, the movement of funds, the identities of other associates, and the methods used to collect money from investors. Authorities are also expected to examine how the allegedly defrauded funds were transferred, concealed, or diverted through different financial channels.
The CBI stated that, as India’s National Central Bureau for INTERPOL, it coordinates with central and state law enforcement agencies through the BHARATPOL platform for international police cooperation. The agency plays a key role in obtaining INTERPOL notices, locating fugitives abroad, coordinating with foreign authorities, and facilitating their return to India through extradition, deportation, or other legal mechanisms.
Officials noted that coordinated efforts involving the MEA, MHA, CBI, and multiple law enforcement agencies have significantly strengthened India’s ability to pursue fugitives hiding overseas. According to the agency, more than 170 wanted criminals have been successfully brought back to India in recent years through coordinated action using INTERPOL channels.
Experts say the case reflects the growing effectiveness of international cooperation against cross-border financial crimes. With closer coordination between INTERPOL, foreign enforcement agencies, and Indian investigators, fugitives accused of economic offences are finding it increasingly difficult to evade prosecution by fleeing abroad.
The investigation into the alleged investment fraud remains ongoing. Authorities are expected to examine the full extent of investor losses, identify additional beneficiaries, trace financial transactions, and determine whether more individuals were involved in the operation. Investigators have indicated that further arrests and legal action may follow as the probe progresses.
