New Delhi (29.05.2025): The Interpol issued its first Silver Notice on India's request to track the global assets of former French Embassy officer Shubham Shokeen, who is wanted in connection with a visa fraud case. Shokeen allegedly collected illegal payments ranging from ₹15,00,000 to ₹45,00,000 per applicant for Schengen visas and used the proceeds to acquire six immovable properties worth ₹15,73,51,250 in Dubai.
The Interpol introduced “Silver Notice” in January this year which is meant for tracking illicit assets globally, specifically properties, accounts, and businesses linked to criminal activities like fraud, corruption, and drug trafficking. It facilitates locating, identifying, and obtaining information about laundered assets including properties, vehicles, financial accounts, and businesses.
The notice was issued on May 23, 2025, as part of a pilot project that started in January 2025, with 51 member countries participating, including India. Italy's request initiated this pilot programme which will continue until November 2025, allowing participating countries to publish up to nine notices each.
Another Silver Notice was issued against Amit Madanlal Lakhanpal, wanted by the Enforcement Directorate, for allegedly creating a cryptocurrency named MTC and collecting ₹113.10 crore from investors without proper authorization.
