A Danish court has rejected India's extradition request for a Danish national accused of involvement in an arms smuggling case that occurred 29 years ago. The individual, Niels Holck, admitted to participating in dropping assault rifles, rocket launchers, and missiles from a cargo plane in eastern India in 1995. These weapons were allegedly intended for a revolutionary group in the country.
The Hilleroed District Court made its decision based on concerns about the risk of torture or inhumane treatment that Holck might face if extradited to India, despite additional diplomatic guarantees provided by the Indian government. Holck, aged 62, expressed fears for his life if sent back to India, stating that he would prefer to be held accountable before a judge but not at the expense of his safety.
While Holck managed to evade arrest when Indian authorities apprehended a British citizen and five Latvians involved in the arms smuggling operation, India first requested his extradition in 2002. Despite Denmark's initial agreement, two Danish courts rejected the extradition on the grounds that Holck could be subjected to torture or other forms of inhumane treatment in India, leading to strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.
In June 2023, Denmark revisited India's 2016 extradition request, citing compliance with the requirements outlined in the extradition act. The recent court ruling underscores the importance of upholding human rights and preventing individuals from facing potential harm or mistreatment in foreign jurisdictions.
