CBI facilitates return of fugitive from Portugal

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has facilitated the extradition from Portugal of an accused wanted in multiple cases by the Haryana police.

In coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs, Abhay alias Abhay Rana was extradited to India on Saturday (May 9). He is allegedly part of an organised crime syndicate and faces charges of attempted murder and issuing death threats.

According to the CBI, the accused and his associates allegedly threatened local businessmen through social media platforms, including WhatsApp calls, demanding ransom payments. Those who failed to comply were allegedly assaulted by members of the syndicate.

At the request of the Haryana police, the CBI earlier secured the publication of an Interpol Red Notice against him. He was subsequently tracked down and arrested by Portuguese authorities, following which an extradition request was submitted. After completion of the legal process, the Portuguese authorities approved his extradition to India. A Haryana police team travelled to Portugal to take him into custody.

Over the past few years, the CBI has coordinated the return of more than 160 fugitives.