Two Gupta brothers still wanted by Interpol – Firoz Cachalia

Acting Police Minister Professor Firoz Cachalia has confirmed that Rajesh and Atul Gupta are still being sought by Interpol, more than four years after red notices were issued against the brothers.

In a written Parliamentary reply, Cachalia confirmed that an Interpol Red Notice was issued for the Gupta brothers in 2022.

The brothers are believed to be in India.

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Previously arrested

Cachalia said Interpol’s National Central Bureau in South Africa is awaiting the finalisation of a provisional request for arrest as well as a formal extradition request.

These steps form part of the broader international legal cooperation and extradition processes involving the two men.

The latest development comes after the Gupta brothers were previously arrested in the United Arab Emirates in June 2022 following the circulation of Interpol red notices. South Africa subsequently pursued their extradition.

The National Prosecuting Authority confirmed in July 2022 that South Africa had submitted a formal extradition application for Atul and Rajesh Gupta to the UAE.

However, the brothers were not ultimately brought back to South Africa.

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Criminal proceedings

The Guptas have been wanted in connection with criminal proceedings linked to alleged fraud and money laundering, including the Nulane Investment case.

The NPA previously said the case involved approximately R24.9 million allegedly diverted from a Free State agriculture department project.

The Gupta family became central figures in South Africa’s State Capture era, with the brothers facing allegations concerning their relationship with former president Jacob Zuma and their alleged influence over government and state-owned enterprises.

The latest Parliamentary response indicates that efforts to secure their arrest and extradition remain ongoing.

Cachalia said further details could not be disclosed while the international legal processes continue.