New Delhi: A government report has revealed that Indian law enforcement agencies located more than 70 fugitives wanted by India in foreign countries during the fiscal year 2024–25, marking the highest number of overseas traces in over a decade. The annual data, released by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, also noted the return of 27 wanted individuals to India during the same period.
Of the fugitives traced abroad, a total of 71 wanted persons were identified with confirmed locations in foreign jurisdictions, according to the government report. These fugitives were sought in connection with a range of criminal cases — including economic offences, corruption, drug trafficking and other serious charges — and were traced using international cooperation mechanisms.
In addition to locating fugitives overseas, Indian authorities also detected 203 foreign fugitives hiding within India over the same period, further highlighting cross-border and internal mobility of wanted individuals.
The report outlines that agencies such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which acts as India’s nodal point for Interpol, played a central role in issuing international notices and coordinating with foreign law enforcement. These efforts included the use of Interpol Red Notices, cooperation on treaty requests, and information-sharing protocols with partner nations to track down and identify fugitives.
Out of those traced abroad, 27 fugitives were successfully brought back to India, where they are expected to face trial or further legal proceedings. This repatriation was facilitated through diplomatic channels, judicial cooperation, and sustained coordination between Indian agencies and their foreign counterparts.
The annual report also sheds light on pending requests for mutual legal assistance. As of March 31, 2025, hundreds of cases were still under process with foreign nations, reflecting ongoing efforts to secure extradition and judicial cooperation across borders.
Law enforcement sources say that overseas fugitives often pose challenges due to jurisdictional issues, differing legal systems and procedural delays. However, enhanced data-sharing, Interpol mechanisms, and treaty-level coordination have improved India’s capacity to locate and repatriate wanted individuals.
The report’s findings come amid broader global trends in transnational crime and fugitive movements, where economic offenders, corruption suspects and other fugitives increasingly seek shelter abroad. Indian agencies have stepped up tracking and legal action as part of a sustained effort to uphold accountability and ensure justice.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
