A famous jeweller formerly the head of one of the world’s biggest jewellery empires has been granted permission to appeal his extradition from the UK on the grounds of mental health, it has been reported.
The Indian billionaire was first accused in 2018 of embezzling $1.8 billion (£1.3 billion) as part of the notorious Punjab National Bank scam.
He is wanted by the Indian government for charges of criminal conspiracy, corruption, money laundering, embezzlement, fraud and more.
The 50-year-old owner of Nirav Modi Jewels has been held in prison in the UK for around two years and is even alleged to have subverted a criminal investigation by threatening to kill a witness.
Earlier this year his extradition to his native India was approved by a UK court.
Now, however, it has emerged that his appeal on the grounds of mental health will be heard.
Sky News reports that Modi’s lawyers have claimed he is a high suicide risk after examination by a psychiatrist.
The National News quoted Judge Martin Chamberlain as saying: “The question for me is simply whether the appellant’s case on these grounds is reasonably arguable. In my judgment, it is.”
Read more about the various accusations against Modi below:
Celebrity jeweller faces UK extradition pressure over bank fraud allegations
