Interpol issues notice against VVIP chopper deal suspect

NEW DELHI: In a significant development into the VVIP chopper deal probe, Interpol has issued a red corner notice (RCN) against evasive middleman, Christian Michel James. The agency also asked all the major exit and entry ports and to issue a look out circular against Michel based on the red corner notice.

The agency probing the alleged money laundering charges in the multi-crore scam said that they need to question Michel to unearth the “larger conspiracy” and “establish money trail”. Michel, a British middleman, is reportedly staying in Dubai and has managed to dodge the authorities. ED sources said that based on the RCN, the agency will press for the custodial interrogation of Michel.

“An Interpol notice will also help to deter his movements across countries,” an official explained. According to ED, Michel has alleged to transferred 29 million euros to clinch the deal in favour of Agusta-Westland. The Enforcement directorate (ED) probing charges of money laundering has identified and attached properties to the tune of Rs 1.12 crore allegedly belonging to Michel in Delhi. The properties included a flat in posh Safdurjung Enclave area of South Delhi, a luxury car and a fixed deposit of Rs 54 lakh.

CBI, which has been probing the corruption charges in the Rs 3,586-crore scam since 2013, has recently moved a Delhi court for issuance of non-bailable warrant (NBW) against Michel, based on which the RCN has been issued.