UK Court Rejects Nirav Modi’s Bail Plea Over Absconding Concerns

London: Fugitive businessman Nirav Modi’s fifth attempt to secure bail after five years in a London prison was unsuccessful. A UK court ruled on Tuesday that Modi presented a “substantial risk” of absconding justice.

The 52-year-old diamond merchant faces fraud and money laundering charges in India. He lost his extradition battle earlier, but his legal team argued a recent change in circumstances justified a new bail hearing.

District Judge John Zani acknowledged the time elapsed since the last attempt but ultimately rejected the application. “There continues to be a real, substantial risk that the applicant would fail to attend court or interfere with witnesses,” Judge Zani concluded.

The judge highlighted the significant nature of the alleged fraud, stating, “This case involves, by any footing, a very substantial fraud allegation… not one where bail can be granted.”

Nirav Modi remains imprisoned as he awaits his extradition to India.