The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has declined South Africa’s request for the extradition of the Gupta brothers, who are wanted for their alleged involvement in state capture and corruption. The Gupta brothers, who are originally from India, have been accused of using their close relationship with former South African President Jacob Zuma to influence government decisions and secure lucrative contracts. The decision by the UAE not to extradite the Gupta brothers has been met with disappointment by South African authorities and civil society groups who have been calling for justice to be served.
The Gupta brothers, who have been living in Dubai since 2016, have been the subject of an international arrest warrant issued by South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). The NPA has accused the brothers of money laundering, fraud, and corruption related to their business dealings in South Africa. The Gupta brothers have denied any wrongdoing and have claimed that they are victims of a political witch hunt. However, the evidence against them is mounting, and their refusal to return to South Africa to face the charges against them has only added to suspicions of their guilt.
The decision by the UAE not to extradite the Gupta brothers is a blow to South Africa’s efforts to hold those responsible for state capture and corruption accountable. It also raises questions about the UAE’s commitment to fighting corruption and international cooperation on extradition matters. The Gupta brothers may have escaped justice for now, but their continued evasion of the law will only serve to further damage their reputation and that of those associated with them. The fight against corruption in South Africa and around the world must continue, and those responsible must be held accountable for their actions.
