Denmark Courted to Decide Extradition of Arms Smuggler to India
A Danish court is set to determine on Thursday whether Niels Holck, a Danish arms smuggler, can be extradited to India for trial. Holck, also known as Kim Davy, confessed to air-dropping weapons to Indian villagers in 1995 to aid them in their fight against government authorities in West Bengal. Despite being the only one of seven smugglers to escape capture by the Indian Air Force, Holck now faces extradition to India. The delivery of assault rifles, pistols, anti-tank grenades, and rocket launchers led to the sentencing of others involved to life imprisonment in 2000, although all were eventually released.
India has pressed for Holck’s extradition as the mastermind of the operation, causing strain in Danish-Indian relations. After a 2010 arrest, legal battles ensued over concerns of mistreatment in India. Holck’s lawyer remains hopeful for a resolution following the upcoming court decision, emphasizing his client’s frustration and hindrance in travel. Prosecutors are likely to appeal should the extradition be denied.