Kanpur, India – December 1, 2025:
Ravindra Nath Soni, the fugitive Indian-origin businessman and prime accused in one of the United Arab Emirates’ largest investment frauds, has been arrested in India, bringing an end to an international manhunt that lasted nearly 18 months.
Soni, 44, the owner of Dubai-based BlueChip Group, was taken into custody by Kanpur police on November 30 from Dehradun, Uttarakhand, where he had been hiding under a false identity. Authorities had earlier announced a reward of Rs 10,000 for information leading to his arrest.
Background of the Case
BlueChip Group, once promoted as a high-return investment firm in Dubai, collapsed after thousands of investors alleged that their funds had been siphoned off in what investigators later described as one of the UAE’s largest financial scams. Soni, who fled the country in 2024, was declared a fugitive after failing to appear before Dubai courts.
Interpol had issued a red corner notice against him, and law enforcement agencies in India were coordinating with UAE authorities to track his movements.
Arrest Operation
According to Kanpur police officials, Soni had been living discreetly in Dehradun for several months, frequently changing addresses to avoid detection. Acting on a tip-off, a special team traced him to a rented property and arrested him without resistance.
Police sources confirmed that Soni will face charges under Indian law for fraud and cheating, while extradition proceedings with the UAE are expected to follow.
Impact on Victims
The arrest has raised hopes among thousands of defrauded investors across the UAE and India. Many victims, particularly expatriates in Dubai, had invested their life savings in BlueChip Group, lured by promises of high monthly returns.
Authorities in both countries are now working to recover assets linked to the scam.
Official Statement
Kanpur police said in a statement:
“The arrest of Ravindra Nath Soni marks a significant breakthrough in a case that has affected thousands of investors. We are committed to cooperating with international agencies to ensure justice is served.”
What’s Next
Legal experts suggest that extradition could take several months, depending on the cooperation between Indian and UAE authorities. Meanwhile, Soni is expected to be produced before a local court in Kanpur for remand and further investigation.
