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Can Anyone Arrested In India For A Crime Committed In Another Country?

The jurisdiction of a country typically extends to crimes committed within its territorial boundaries. However, there are certain circumstances where a country may claim jurisdiction over crimes committed outside its territory. In the case of India, it has enacted laws that allow for the trial of certain extraterritorial offenses. These laws enable Indian authorities to exercise jurisdiction over crimes committed by Indian nationals or offenses that have a substantial connection to India, even if they occurred in another country.

Such provisions are commonly found in laws related to terrorism, money laundering, cybercrimes, and certain other serious offenses. The exercise of jurisdiction in these cases is often guided by international treaties, bilateral agreements, and the principle of comity among nations.

Types of Crime Leading to Arrest in India for Offenses Committed in another Country

When it comes to crimes committed in another country for which someone can be arrested in India, it generally depends on the specific laws, international agreements, and extradition treaties in place between India and the country where the crime was committed.

  • Terrorism- If a person is involved in acts of terrorism or supports a terrorist organization; they can be arrested and prosecuted in India, regardless of where the crime occurred.

  • Money Laundering- Money laundering offenses that involve the proceeds of crime or illicit funds, even if generated outside of India, can be subject to investigation, arrest, and prosecution in India.

  • Cybercrimes- With the rise of cybercrime, certain offenses like hacking, identity theft, online fraud, and other computer-related crimes committed abroad may lead to arrest and prosecution in India.

  • International Drug Trafficking- Individuals involved in drug trafficking activities across international borders can be arrested in India if they are found to be in possession of illegal drugs or are part of a drug smuggling network.

  • Extraterritorial Offenses under Indian Law- Some offenses defined in Indian law, such as certain acts of piracy, offenses against the Indian state, or crimes committed by Indian nationals abroad, can be subject to arrest and trial in India.

Indian Legislation on Arrest in India for a Crime Committed in another Country

  • Indian Penal Code (IPC) - The IPC is the primary criminal code in India. It contains provisions that allow for the extraterritorial jurisdiction of Indian courts in certain cases. For example, Section 3 of the IPC states that Indian criminal law applies to any offense committed by an Indian citizen outside India if it is an offense punishable under Indian law.

  • Extradition Act, 1962- The Extradition Act provides the legal framework for extradition proceedings in India. It governs the extradition of individuals from India to other countries and from other countries to India.

  • Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002- The PMLA is aimed at preventing money laundering and confiscating proceeds of crime. It enables Indian authorities to investigate and prosecute offenses related to money laundering, even if the underlying crime was committed in another country.

  • Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967- The UAPA is an anti-terrorism law in India. It allows for the prosecution of individuals involved in acts of terrorism or supporting terrorist organizations, regardless of the location of the crime.

Role of Lawyers

  • Legal Advice and Guidance- Lawyers analyse the case, review relevant laws, and provide legal advice to the arrested individual regarding their rights, potential defences, and available legal options. They help their clients understand the extradition process, Indian laws, and the potential consequences they may face.

  • Extradition Proceedings- Lawyers assist their clients in navigating the complex extradition process. They prepare and present arguments, evidence, and defences against the extradition request from the foreign country. They may challenge the validity of the extradition request, present evidence of innocence, or argue against the extradition based on legal grounds.

  • Representation in Indian Courts- If the extradition request is granted, lawyers represent their clients in Indian courts during the subsequent legal proceedings. They advocate for their clients' rights, present a defence, challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution, and ensure due process is followed.

You will need the help of lawyers to safeguard the rights and interests of individuals arrested in India for crimes committed in another country. If you need the help of lawyers to protect the legal rights of an arrested person in Pune for crimes committed in another country, then a Criminal lawyer in Pune can be hired, and if you need the help of lawyers to protect the legal rights of an arrested person in Kolkata, then a Criminal lawyer in Kolkata can be hired. Similarly, a Criminal lawyer in Delhi can be hired if you need the help of lawyers to protect the legal rights of an arrested person in Delhi.


At Lead India, one can consult and talk to a lawyerfor any legal advice. They can get free legal advice online as well as ask a legal question online for free to lawyers from Lead India.


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