New Delhi, January 26: It seems that the Narendra Modi government is adamant on bringing back economic fugitives Mehul Choksi and Nirav Modi before the 2019 Lok Sabha Elections. News agency IANS quoted government sources confirming that "India is moving ahead to bring back high-value economic offenders from the West Indies. A long-range Air India Boeing has been commissioned to handle this mission. Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials will fly to the West Indies to bring these persons back." Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya, Mehul Choksi Will Be Brought Back Just Like Christian Michel, Says Prakash Javadekar.

Diamantaire Mehul Choksi and Winsome Diamonds promoter Jatin Mehta have taken citizenship in islands in the Caribbean, availing of the controversial paid citizenship programme provided by many of the these parts. Mehta became a citizen of St Kitts and Nevis some years ago while Choksi has taken Antigua and Barbuda citizenship recently. Rahul Gandhi Accuses Modi Government of Allowing Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi to Flee Despite Having Evidence.

These islands provide visa free travel to 132 countries. Citizenship through investment has become popular among Indian economic offenders. PNB Fraud Case: Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi’s Illegal Bungalows to Be Razed, Says Ramdas Kadam.

IANS quotes "government sources" saying that Choksi may be picked up in the Caribbean while "Modi may be sequestered on the return route from Europe where he is reportedly hiding." Lack of extradition treaties has made these islands a safe haven for India's uber rich and economic offenders. Nirav Modi’s Alibaug Bungalow to be Demolished This Weekend, Other Illegal Structures of PNB Fraud Accused to be Razed Too.

Dominica and St Lucia give citizenship and a valid passport for just $100,000. Meanwhile, Grenada gives you similar passports for $200,000. (With IANS Inputs)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 26, 2019 09:48 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).