PTC Web Desk: In a major breakthrough against economic offenders, Indian authorities have secured the deportation of Vishakha Rathod, a key accused in the alleged Rs 88-crore investment fraud case, from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). She was taken into custody after arriving in Pune, where the investigation into the case is continuing.

The operation was carried out by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and authorities in the UAE.

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According to the CBI, an Interpol Red Notice had been issued against Vishakha Rathod at the request of Indian authorities. The international alert helped trace and facilitate her return to India. She landed in Pune on August 3, where a team of the Maharashtra Police arrested her immediately after her arrival.

What are the allegations?

Investigators allege that Vishakha Rathod and her husband, Avinash Rathod, lured investors into multiple investment schemes by promising assured fixed monthly returns. The couple is accused of collecting large sums of money from investors and then allegedly misappropriating the funds. The investigation further claims that the money was routed through multiple bank accounts and demat accounts to conceal the transactions. The alleged fraud is estimated to be worth Rs 88 crore.

Husband was brought back earlier

Avinash Rathod, who is believed to be the alleged mastermind behind the investment scam, was also traced through an Interpol Red Corner Notice issued on June 4, 2026. He was detained by authorities in the UAE and deported to India on July 23, 2026.

After arriving at Mumbai International Airport, he was arrested by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Pune Police, taken to Pune and produced before a court, which granted 10 days of police custody.

CBI's role in international cooperation

The CBI functions as India's National Central Bureau for Interpol, coordinating with law enforcement agencies through Bharatpol and facilitating the tracing, detention and return of fugitives wanted by Indian investigating agencies.

The Central Government said India had successfully brought back 274 fugitive criminals from 36 countries between 2019 and July 2026 as part of an intensified effort to ensure that accused persons hiding overseas are brought back to face legal proceedings in India.

- With inputs from agencies

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