Gupta Brothers accused of defrauding South Africa arrested in Dubai

The Dubai Police have arrested Atul and Rajesh Gupta in connection with money laundering and criminal charges in South Africa.

According to a statement by South Africa’s Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services, two of the three brothers, who are among South Africa’s most wanted suspects, have been arrested, with ongoing discussions  between the two countries on the way forward.

The Gupta brothers were accused of defrauding the state during former President Jacob Zuma’s tenure. The Gupta brothers and the former President have denied the allegations.

In a statement, the ministry confirmed that it has “received information from law enforcement authorities in the United Arab Emirates that fugitives of justice, namely Rajesh and Atul Gupta, have been arrested”.

“Discussions between various law enforcement agencies in the UAE and South Africa on the way forward are ongoing. The South African government will continue to co-operate with the UAE,” it added.

Media Statement : Ministry of Justice confirms Gupta arrest pic.twitter.com/jkNc3fkirN

— Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services ?? (@Min_JCS) June 6, 2022

The Dubai police made the arrests after receiving a red notice for the Gupta brothers from Interpol. The force is coordinating with the authorities in South Africa to complete the legal procedures related to their extradition file.

The #DubaiPolice arrest brothers wanted by South African authorities for criminal and money laundering charges. pic.twitter.com/vIByqyvGqQ

— Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) June 7, 2022

Referring to the arrest, the Dubai Police said: “It reflects the continuous efforts of the UAE in combating money laundering crimes. This is done in cooperation with competent authorities, including the Ministry of Justice, Dubai Public Prosecution, Executive Office to Combat Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing, and the Financial Intelligence Unit.”

In July last year, Interpol said the Gupta brothers were being sought for fraud and money laundering in connection with a $1.6m contract paid to a Gupta-linked company, Nulane Investment, to conduct an agricultural feasibility study.

The brothers came to South Africa in 1993 to build a sprawling business empire in mining, computer technology and media. They fled South Africa shortly after Zuma resigned from the presidency in February, 2018.