India’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has confirmed the repatriation of 274 fugitives from 36 countries between 2019 and 2026. This operation includes individuals accused of severe offences such as terrorism, gang-related activities, and sexual crimes.
The MHA revealed this information during a press briefing on Tuesday, highlighting the proactive measures taken by the Indian government against criminal fugitives. The ministry noted that this repatriation effort reflects a significant shift in India’s approach to tackling fugitive criminals, bolstered by international cooperation and updated legal frameworks.
Assets worth Rs 17,874 crore belonging to these fugitives have been seized under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The government also reported that Rs 18,762 crore has been returned in cases linked to economic fugitives, underscoring its commitment to tracing illicit wealth.
The issue of fugitives has gained heightened attention, with the MHA issuing 40 Red Corner Notices in 2022 alone, increasing to 182 notices so far in 2026. Between 2022 and 2025, a combined total of 20,000 notices have aimed to facilitate the extradition of wanted individuals.
In the current year, 45 fugitives have been successfully brought back to India, continuing a trend initiated in previous years. The government reported a peak in repatriation efforts in 2025, when 70 individuals returned to face justice.
Among the 274 fugitives, there were a staggering 62 wanted for serious crimes such as murder and robbery. Others faced allegations of violent crimes, sexual offences, and narcotics violations. The detailed categorization emphasizes the grave nature of these individuals’ offences against society.
The MHA highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, there has been a concerted push to modernize India’s extradition processes. The introduction of the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act in 2018 marked a crucial step in this ongoing battle against crime.
Before the Modi government, India had an antiquated extradition framework. The MHA stated that prior to 2014, India had ratified treaties with only 37 countries and secured the extradition of only four fugitives per year. This contrasted starkly with the impressive numbers seen in recent years.
The ministry pointed out that previous governmental practices hindered effective extradition due to lack of coordination between various departments. Legal and bureaucratic red tape often derailed timely justice for victims.
“Previous governments lacked the political will to bring back fugitives; this administration has prioritized this national need,” stated the MHA. Amit Shah emphasized a tri-fold strategy encompassing global outreach, strong coordination, and smart diplomacy, particularly underscoring the link between fugitive cases and national security.
Since the enforcement of the PMLA, India has demonstrated a stricter approach towards seizing assets connected to fugitive activities. Enhanced surveillance through the establishment of a Special Global Operations Centre by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has played a pivotal role in these efforts.
Through real-time coordination with international police agencies, the CBI has expedited the detection and arrests of fugitives. To add on, the CBI has appointed designated Interpol Contact Officers across all Indian states, heightening international collaboration.
Operation Trishul was launched to further bolster efforts in tracing fugitive offenders. Utilizing advanced technologies like satellite tracking and digital footprint analysis, authorities have identified absconders often trying to conceal their identities abroad.
A recent case illustrating this resolve is the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana from the United States, showcasing India’s increased diplomatic competency in serious criminal matters. The sustained aggression in tackling international fugitives will serve as a powerful deterrent against future crimes.
The MHA firmly states that partnerships with foreign governments and the implementation of rigorous identification methods reflect a comprehensive strategy addressing a matter that poses threats to national sovereignty and security.
“Fugitives are not just case files; they embody live threats requiring proactive measures,” asserted the MHA. The recent formation of a Standing Focus Group within the Multi Agency Centre signifies a unified effort aimed at prioritizing and structuring the management of fugitive cases across India.
