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Who is Barbara Jabarika? The Woman Behind Mehul Choksi’s Bizarre Honey-Trap

April 14, 2025, 7:06 pm

Indian authorities finally caught up with fugitive diamond trader Mehul Choksi. Over the weekend, he was arrested by Belgian police as he allegedly tried to escape to Switzerland to seek medical care. The arrest was the culmination of a determined seven-year manhunt in various nations. One of the most bizarre episodes in Choksi’s escape saga involves Barbara Jabarika, a Bulgarian property agent, who is reportedly linked to a 2021 honey-trap and abduction scheme that Choksi claims led to his forced transport from Antigua to Dominica.

Choksi’s shocking claim: Abduction by boat

After fleeing India in 2018, Mehul Choksi settled in Antigua and Barbuda by acquiring citizenship through investment. For a while, he remained low-profile. Then, in May 2021, Dominican authorities arrested him for illegal entry. Choksi responded with a startling claim: someone had abducted and tortured him, then forcibly placed him on a boat that took him from Antigua to Dominica.

He accused Barbara Jabarika of baiting him into the trap. He claimed she invited him over for dinner and used the encounter as a trap for his kidnapping.

Who is Barbara Jabarika?

Barbara represents herself on LinkedIn as a “Property Investment Agent” from Bulgaria. Based on her profile, she possesses more than a decade of experience as a direct sales and property expert. She also has skills in negotiation, leadership, and customer relations.

However, Mehul Choksi’s wife Priti tells a different story. She claims Barbara is a Hungarian national and met Choksi in 2020. According to Priti, Barbara acted under false pretenses as part of a coordinated honey-trap operation.

Barbara strikes back: ‘I Don’t Need His Money’

Barbara refuted the charges as unfounded. She denied ever having a romantic relationship with Mehul Choksi and dismissed the “girlfriend” label. She also accused Choksi of deception regarding his identity. She said he introduced himself as “Raj” and made contact by requesting her phone number.

She refused to take any interest in his money, imitation jewellery, or hotel booking. In her own words, “I have my own income and business. I don’t need anything from him.”

Can India bring Choksi back?

India may now seek Mehul Choksi’s extradition from Belgium. Yet, according to former diplomat KP Fabian, the process won’t be easy. He explained that only the Belgian government can decide on extradition. Choksi can also legally challenge the move and drag the case through lengthy appeals.

Fabian pointed out that extradition usually takes years. He gave the example of 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana—India had first requested his extradition in 2008 but only reached close to it in 2025.

The Barbara Jabarika episode adds an international twist to Choksi’s ongoing legal troubles. As India closes in, the honey-trap claims, identity games, and legal hurdles continue to deepen the mystery around one of India’s most wanted fugitives.

Belgium Charges 8 in Huawei-Linked EU Bribery Scandal Investigation

April 5, 2025, 2:33 am

Belgian federal prosecutors have formally charged eight individuals in connection with a European Parliament bribery probe tied to Chinese tech giant Huawei. The charges include active corruption, money laundering, and participation in a criminal organization.

While five of the accused have been released—some under house arrest—three remain in custody.

Huawei Allegedly Funded Pro-Huawei Letter

The charges follow a major investigation that began in March, when prosecutors detained multiple suspects over allegations that Huawei made illicit payments to European lawmakers.

According to investigators, Huawei representatives or lobbyists may have provided bribes or gifts to members of parliament in exchange for support of the company’s interests in Europe’s 5G technology rollout. Authorities suspect that these payments were aimed at securing an open letter signed by eight European legislators that supported Huawei’s stance.

Raids Conducted Across Belgium and Portugal

Last month, police raided over 20 locations in Belgium and Portugal as part of the widening probe. Belgian prosecutors noted that the alleged offenses date back to 2021 and have continued through to the present day.

Aftermath of Qatargate Still Fresh

The investigation draws parallels to the 2022 “Qatargate” scandal, in which several EU lawmakers were accused of accepting bribes to promote the interests of Qatar and Morocco—allegations both countries deny.

Mehul Choksi Confirmed in Belgium, Extradition Efforts Underway

March 26, 2025, 10:51 am

Mehul Choksi, a diamond dealer on the run and among India’s most wanted in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) loan fraud case, has been officially reported to be in Belgium. The Belgian foreign ministry has confirmed his presence, stating that they “attaches great importance and attention to it.” But Belgium has not made any comment about specific cases.

Despite this, Belgium’s Foreign Ministry stated that “the FPS Foreign Affairs continues to closely follow the developments in this important case.” The confirmation comes as Indian authorities are actively working to secure Choksi’s extradition. Reports from Associate Times indicate that Indian officials have reached out to their Belgian counterparts to initiate the extradition process. This comes after Choksi’s role in the Rs 13,500-crore PNB loan scam for which he is being accused, together with his nephew Nirav Modi.

Mehul Choksi Whereabouts and Background

Mehul Choksi, aged 65 and on wanted list in India for the gigantic fraud, has been living in Antwerp, Belgium, with his wife, Preeti Choksi, a Belgian national. It is unverified but reported that Mehul Choksi and his wife might have been granted an ‘F Residency Card.’ Even after taking Antigua and Barbuda citizenship before escaping from India, he stayed back in Belgium after undergoing medical treatment outside India.

Mehul Choksi and Modi had left India in January 2018, a few weeks prior to the PNB scam going public. Choksi was then already an Antiguan citizen. The fraud was later estimated to be Rs 13,500 crore, which rocked India’s banking sector.

Extradition and Legal Battles

While Choksi is in Belgium, his nephew Nirav Modi is under arrest in London awaiting extradition on the same charge of fraud. Choksi’s lawyers have claimed that the charges against him are politically motivated and that his Indian assets were illegally confiscated by the Enforcement Directorate.

Choksi was detained in Dominica in 2021 after attempting to flee to Cuba but has since managed to evade extradition to India. As Belgian authorities trail behind him, the quest for justice continues, with Indian authorities insisting that he be returned to face the charges.

Belgium Finally Forms Government Coalition After Months Of Negotiations And Talks

February 1, 2025, 2:53 am

Political parties in Belgium agreed on the broad coalition government which was formed last Sunday after almost eight months of grueling negotiation over the win by the Flemish nationalist party, N-VA, during the June 2024 elections. According to the report of VRT News, the new government will be led by the head of the party N-VA, Bart De Wever, who will reportedly be Belgium’s next prime minister.

The coalition will consist of five parties from both the Dutch-speaking north and the French-speaking south. The grouping comprises Christian democrats, socialists, liberals, and center parties that will push through the political impasse. Unfortunately, the far-right Vlaams Belang party, although winning the second-most number of seats in the election, was left out of the negotiations. Following is the decision the country made; Belgium had avoided working with anti-immigrant and anti-EU party that aimed at splitting their country.

Primarily, due to budget cut, tax raising, and pensions reform, protracted coalition negotiation has been paralyzed. De Wever, in N-VA, was aggressively pushing for some of these economic measures that can help address fiscally precarious government.

Belgian’s political face requires coalition formation mainly because this nation is politically divided into distinct regions with specific linguistic preferences. A new and the most influential coalitional establishment emerged as one crucial step of governance stabilization as well after electoral victories of the party N-VA.

Belgium Leads EU with Disposable E-Cigarette Ban to Protect Youth Health

December 31, 2024, 2:38 pm

Belgium’s landmark decision to become the first European Union country to ban disposable e-cigarettes represents a decisive step toward addressing public health concerns, especially among the youth. The ban, which aims to curb the rising popularity of disposable e-cigarettes, is rooted in the growing recognition of the potential health risks these devices pose. With their widespread appeal to teenagers and young adults, disposable e-cigarettes have been a significant cause for concern due to their easy accessibility, high nicotine content, and attractive packaging.

Understanding the Disposable E-Cigarette Phenomenon

E-cigarettes, also known as vapes, have gained significant traction as an alternative to traditional cigarettes. While marketed as a safer option, many health experts have raised concerns over the long-term effects of using e-cigarettes, particularly regarding nicotine addiction. Disposable e-cigarettes, which are single-use devices pre-filled with nicotine-containing liquid, have become particularly popular in recent years. These devices are convenient, portable, and often sold in brightly colored packaging that appeals to younger demographics.

The allure of disposable e-cigarettes for young people is undeniable. They are often marketed with flavors that mimic fruity or candy-like tastes, further appealing to a generation that may not otherwise consider traditional smoking. The ease of use and the perception that e-cigarettes are less harmful than cigarettes contribute to their widespread use. However, these devices contain significant amounts of nicotine, which can lead to addiction. Nicotine, especially when introduced at a young age, can have a detrimental effect on brain development, impacting attention, learning, and mood regulation.

Public Health Concerns

Belgium’s decision to ban disposable e-cigarettes comes at a time when many countries are grappling with the impact of vaping on public health. There is growing concern that e-cigarettes are not a “safe” alternative to smoking, as some initially believed. While they may expose users to fewer harmful chemicals than traditional cigarettes, they still present a health risk, particularly due to the nicotine content.

Nicotine addiction is one of the primary concerns associated with e-cigarettes. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) highlights the addictive properties of nicotine, which can cause long-term changes to the brain’s chemistry. For adolescents and young adults, nicotine use can interfere with the development of the brain, leading to lasting cognitive and behavioral problems. Research also suggests that early exposure to nicotine can increase the likelihood of using other addictive substances in the future.

In addition to nicotine, e-cigarettes may also contain other harmful substances, such as heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, and other chemicals that can irritate the lungs and pose other health risks. The safety of inhaling these substances over an extended period is still largely unknown, with many health experts raising alarms about the potential long-term effects of vaping.

Youth and E-Cigarette Use in Belgium

Belgium, like many other countries, has seen a concerning rise in e-cigarette use among its youth. According to a study conducted by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), vaping among teenagers in Europe has been steadily increasing over the years. While some European countries have implemented measures to curb the use of e-cigarettes among minors, Belgium’s decision to implement a full ban on disposable e-cigarettes is seen as a strong and proactive approach to protect young people.

In Belgium, e-cigarettes are widely available in convenience stores, gas stations, and online platforms. The increasing accessibility of these products, combined with their appeal to teenagers, has led to concerns over the rise in nicotine addiction among youth. By banning disposable e-cigarettes, Belgium aims to reduce the number of young people who are introduced to nicotine use and prevent the health problems that may arise from long-term use.

In response to the growing e-cigarette epidemic, Belgium’s public health authorities have focused on raising awareness about the dangers of vaping. Educational campaigns have been launched to inform both parents and young people about the risks associated with e-cigarettes. However, these campaigns have not been enough to stem the rising tide of vaping, particularly among adolescents.

Environmental Impact of Disposable E-Cigarettes

Beyond the health concerns, there is also an environmental issue related to the widespread use of disposable e-cigarettes. These devices are typically made from plastic and contain lithium batteries, which can contribute to significant environmental waste. With millions of disposable e-cigarettes being used every year, the environmental impact of discarded devices has become a growing concern.

E-cigarette waste is not only a problem for the environment but also a challenge for recycling systems. The materials used in disposable e-cigarettes are not easily recyclable, and many of the discarded devices end up in landfills or, worse, in oceans and waterways. This exacerbates the global issue of plastic pollution, which has harmful effects on wildlife and ecosystems.

Belgium’s decision to ban disposable e-cigarettes also addresses this environmental concern. By eliminating single-use e-cigarettes, the country hopes to reduce the amount of plastic waste generated by these products. This ban is in line with Belgium’s broader environmental goals, which include reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable practices.

Legal and Regulatory Measures

Belgium’s ban on disposable e-cigarettes is part of a broader effort to regulate the use of tobacco and nicotine products. The country has a long history of implementing stringent tobacco control measures, including restrictions on advertising, smoking in public spaces, and the sale of tobacco products to minors. Belgium’s health ministry has stated that the new ban will help protect young people from the dangers of nicotine addiction and reduce the environmental impact of disposable e-cigarettes.

The legal framework surrounding e-cigarettes in Belgium has evolved over time. In 2016, the European Union introduced the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD), which established regulations for the sale and marketing of e-cigarettes across member states. This directive aimed to ensure the safety of e-cigarettes and prevent their appeal to minors. However, despite these regulations, the use of e-cigarettes among young people continued to rise, leading to Belgium’s decision to take further action.

The ban on disposable e-cigarettes is not a standalone measure but part of a broader regulatory effort to reduce the public health impact of tobacco and nicotine products. Belgium has been working to strengthen its tobacco control policies, including increasing taxes on tobacco products, promoting smoking cessation programs, and restricting the sale of flavored tobacco products, which are particularly attractive to young people.

Setting a Precedent for Other EU Countries

Belgium’s decision to ban disposable e-cigarettes sets an important precedent for other European Union countries. As the first EU nation to take such action, Belgium is leading the way in addressing the health risks posed by e-cigarettes, particularly among youth. Other countries may follow Belgium’s example and introduce similar measures to protect young people from nicotine addiction and reduce the environmental impact of disposable e-cigarettes.

Many European countries are currently grappling with the challenge of balancing the regulation of e-cigarettes with the desire to reduce smoking rates. While e-cigarettes are often seen as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, the rise in youth vaping has raised concerns about their potential to create a new generation of nicotine addicts. Belgium’s ban sends a clear message that the health and well-being of young people should be prioritized, even if it means restricting the availability of e-cigarettes.

Belgium’s bold decision to ban disposable e-cigarettes represents a significant step forward in protecting public health, particularly among young people. By addressing both the health risks and the environmental impact of these devices, Belgium is setting an important example for other EU nations. While the long-term effects of e-cigarette use are still being studied, the country’s decision reflects a commitment to safeguarding future generations from the dangers of nicotine addiction. As more countries look to Belgium’s example, it is likely that similar measures will be implemented across Europe, contributing to a healthier, more sustainable future.

Transforming Sex Work: Belgium Law Grants Sex Workers Health Insurance, Pensions, and Legal Protections

December 1, 2024, 12:00 pm

The nation has made history as Belgium becomes the first country globally to introduce a wide legal framework that provides full employment rights for sex workers. This historic legislation is just following up on the decriminalisation of sex work, a move that took place last year in 2022. Sex workers can now access pensions, maternity leave, and social security as part of the newly promulgated law.

Key Provisions of the New Law

Under this landmark legislation, sex workers will be issued employment certificates that will allow them to access health insurance, legal protections, and safer working conditions. The employers are now legally obliged to ensure the safety of the workers by installing panic buttons in the workspaces and ensuring that sex workers can refuse clients or certain acts they are uncomfortable with. The legal framework also ensures that employers maintain basic safety standards, which means a safer environment for workers.

Background and Advocacy for Change

The push for these rights came after a series of protests in 2022, where sex workers highlighted the lack of support during the COVID-19 pandemic. Victoria, president of the Belgian Union of Sex Workers, called the change a “transformative” moment for workers, providing them with much-needed protection and empowerment. For many workers like Mel, the new law offers a safer and more secure working environment, as well as legal backing to combat exploitative practices.

Opposition and Concerns

Despite its progressive nature, the law has faced criticism from various quarters. Some critics argue that legalising sex work could potentially normalize exploitation and trafficking. NGOs like Isala have pointed out that many sex workers desire pathways out of the profession rather than labour rights, and fear that such policies could inadvertently encourage the normalization of sex work.

However, advocates, including Human Rights Watch, have lauded the legislation, emphasizing that it significantly reduces the power of employers over workers, offering them dignity, legal recognition, and protections previously unavailable.

Belgium’s Model: A Global Benchmark

Belgium’s approach to sex workers’ rights sets a new global standard, encouraging other nations to reconsider their policies on sex work. While some countries, such as India, have decriminalised sex work, the lack of formal regulations leaves workers without essential protections. If implemented in other regions, a Belgian-style framework could vastly improve the lives of sex workers, though it would likely face challenges due to societal stigma and systemic barriers.

Belgium’s initiative highlights the importance of legal recognition for sex workers and sets a precedent for other nations to follow. By balancing safety, equality, and empowerment, Belgium challenges the world to rethink how sex work should be viewed and regulated, ensuring that workers in all professions receive the rights and protections they deserve.

Paris Olympics: India and Belgium Hockey Teams Secure Unbeaten Spots in Quarter-Finals

July 31, 2024, 5:07 am

India and Belgium have advanced to the knockout stages of the Paris Olympics following key results in Pool B. India’s men’s hockey team secured their spot in the quarter-finals with a decisive 2-0 victory over Ireland. This win was further cemented when Argentina defeated New Zealand 2-0, allowing India to briefly top Pool B.

However, Belgium soon reclaimed the top spot with a commanding 6-2 win over Australia. Belgium’s impressive performance moved them to first place in the pool with nine points from three matches, while India settled into second place with seven points.

India’s journey in the tournament began with a thrilling 3-2 win over New Zealand. Their second game saw skipper Harmanpreet Kaur score a crucial late goal against Argentina to secure a draw. Against Ireland, India came out strong, applying early pressure. They earned a penalty corner just two minutes into the match, but Harmanpreet’s initial drag flick was blocked by an Irish defender. Despite this, India continued to dominate possession and executed precise passes.

Their aggressive approach paid off when Gurjant Singh and Mandeep Singh created a scoring chance, resulting in a penalty stroke after Mandeep was fouled. Harmanpreet converted the stroke confidently, giving India a 1-0 lead in the 11th minute. In the second quarter, India maintained their dominance, earning three penalty corners. The third corner saw Harmanpreet score again with a powerful drag-flick, extending India’s lead to 2-0 in the 19th minute.

With their 2-0 lead, India controlled the game effectively, keeping Ireland at bay. They held on to their advantage to secure the win and confirm their place in the quarter-finals.

President Zelenskiy To Visit Belgium For Signing Security Pact

May 28, 2024, 1:36 pm

The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, is scheduled to embark on a visit to Belgium on Tuesday, during which he will engage in the signing of a significant security pact with Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, as officially announced by the Belgian government.

On Monday, the Belgian government issued a written statement confirming that President Zelenskiy and Prime Minister De Croo are scheduled to convene a press conference in Brussels as part of the announcement regarding the Ukrainian president’s upcoming visit to Belgium.

The Ukrainian leader is actively pursuing increased military assistance from Western allies amidst the ongoing challenges of defending against Russia’s invading forces.

On the preceding Monday, President Zelenskiy undertook a diplomatic mission to Spain, where an agreement was reached for military assistance amounting to 1 billion euros (equivalent to $1.08 billion) for this year. This aid falls within the framework of a security treaty established between President Zelenskiy and the administration led by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

Ukraine has entered into a sequence of similar agreements with its Western allies, committing to providing enduring security support through the provision of arms and training to bolster Kyiv’s military capabilities.

President Zelenskiy has recently made significant strides in strengthening Ukraine’s international relations through a series of notable agreements.

One such agreement involves deepening security cooperation with the Western partners, promising long-term assistance in the form of arms supplies and training for Kyiv’s forces. This underscores Ukraine’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities amidst ongoing regional challenges.

Additionally, Zelenskiy has been actively engaged in economic partnerships, forging agreements aimed at fostering trade and investment opportunities for Ukraine. These efforts reflect Zelenskiy’s proactive approach to strengthening Ukraine’s position on the global stage and promoting its economic growth and security.

Indian Women’s Hockey Team Falls 0-2 To Belgium In FIH Pro League 2023-24 Match

May 24, 2024, 11:23 am

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team suffered a 0-2 defeat to Belgium in their second match of the European leg of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24. Belgium’s Alexia ‘T Serstevens (34′) and Louise Dewaet (36’) scored a goal each to secure the win.

India started the match aggressively on Thursday, winning an early penalty corner but failing to capitalize. Despite their pressure, Belgium initially struggled to maintain possession and relied on counter-attacks, which India’s defense effectively neutralized. Towards the end of the first quarter, Belgium earned a penalty corner, but Indian goalkeeper Savita made a comfortable save. India also created several circle entries but couldn’t score, ending the first quarter goalless.

In the second quarter, Belgium increased their pressure with precise passing and constant attacks. India absorbed this well, maintaining possession and making quick passes to challenge Belgium’s defense a few times. However, both teams were unable to score, and the first half ended 0-0.

Belgium came out strong in the third quarter, with Alexia ‘T Serstevens and Louise Dewaet scoring field goals within two minutes, giving the hosts a 2-0 lead. India intensified their efforts to make a comeback, earning a penalty corner towards the end of the third quarter, but failed to convert.

In the final quarter, India made several advances and tested Belgium’s defense rigorously, but the hosts successfully defended their lead. Despite maintaining possession and making regular circle entries, India couldn’t score, and the match ended 2-0 in Belgium’s favor.

Notably, Indian forward Deepika Soreng made her senior team debut in this match. The Indian Women’s Hockey Team will face Belgium again in their next match on Saturday.

Defending champions Belgium defeat
New Zealand 2-0 to enter semifinals

January 26, 2023, 2:25 pm

Defending champions Belgium advanced into the semifinals of the ongoing FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup after overpowering New Zealand 2-0 in the second quarterfinal match at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday.

Belgium faced a formidable challenge from New Zealand. Van Aubel Florent made a spectacular field goal in the 15th minute, while Tom Boon converted a penalty corner in the 10th. Both goals were scored in the opening period. The Kiwis did their best to give the formidable Belgium a serious battle after their crossover victory over the hosts India, but they were only able to limit the goals scored against them to two.

The Black Sticks were hardly given any room to manoeuvre by Belgium. Only one of Belgium’s three penalty corner opportunities–which came in the game’s 10th, 24th, and 35th minutes–was successful. New Zealand were awarded a similar amount of penalty corners in the 28th, 46th and 59th minutes. They missed all their opportunities to score.

A rock-solid defence from Belgium prevented them from having any scoring chances. In the 48th minute, Kiwi captain Woods Nic was shown a yellow card. During the game’s final phase, they were down to just 10 players, which put further pressure on them. They made every effort to win in the fourth and final quarter, but the Red Lions’ defenders and custodians proved to be too strong for them. With solid defending techniques, Belgium rolled into the semifinals and went one step closer to defending their title crown.

Qatar’s stadium guidelines for FIFA fans

November 18, 2022, 1:21 pm

The fans visiting the Middle-Eastern country for FIFA World Cup 2022 have to cover their shoulders, knees said the Qatar government guidelines.

The guidelines have garnered criticism from across the world for asking the fans flocking to the country to wear appropriate clothes.

The statement issued by Qatar Tourism reads, “Attitudes towards dressing in Qatar are relaxed, but visitors (men as well as women) are expected to show respect for the local culture by avoiding excessively revealing clothes in public. It is generally recommended for men and women to ensure their shoulders and knees are covered.”

Meanwhile, the guidelines have requested fans to respect the decision including its restrictions on drinking, drugs, sexual activity, and attire.

However, from 20 November 2022 FIFA World Cup will begin and will go on till 18 December. The first match will be played between the Ecuadorian team and the host team.

However, Qatar (Hosts), Argentina, Brazil, England, France, Spain, Belgium, Portugal, Germany, The Netherlands, Uruguay, Croatia, Denmark, Mexico, the United States, Senegal, Wales, Poland, Australia, Japan, Morocco, Switzerland, Ghana, Korea Republic, Cameroon, Serbia, Canada, Costa Rica, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Islamic Republic of Iran, Ecuador qualified for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Furthermore, in 8 different stadiums across the middle-eastern nation of Qatar the World Cup 2022 will be played at Lusail Iconic Stadium, Al Bayt Stadium, Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, Khalifa International Stadium, Stadium 974, Al Thumama Stadium, Education City Stadium, Al Wakrah Sports Complex.