Manila, September Philippine immigration authorities have arrested a 59-year-old Australian national who was wanted by Indian authorities in connection with an alleged criminal conspiracy involving fraudulent merchant transactions and the diversion of bank funds.

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) identified the man as Rishi Levi. He was arrested in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig, by officers of the Bureau’s Fugitive Search Unit on September 9, following an Interpol Red Notice issued in connection with an arrest warrant from India’s Rouse Avenue District Courts in New Delhi.

Alleged Financial Conspiracy

According to Philippine immigration authorities, Indian investigators allege that Levi was involved in facilitating fictitious merchant trade transactions that allegedly diverted funds from bank accounts.

Authorities further allege that he personally received approximately US$430,000 in commissions from the transactions. The suspected scheme reportedly caused losses estimated at around ₹2.49 billion (₹249 crore) to the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED).

Arrest Followed Interpol Red Notice

The arrest warrant connected to the case was issued by the Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Rouse Avenue District Courts, New Delhi, on November 28, 2024.

Based on the warrant, an Interpol Red Notice was issued seeking the location and provisional arrest of the wanted individual.

Philippine authorities subsequently located Levi in Taguig City and took him into custody. Officials said he had entered the Philippines on January 4, 2026.

Deportation Proceedings Expected

Following his arrest, Levi was transferred to the Bureau of Immigration Warden’s Facility in Taguig.

Philippine authorities said he will face deportation proceedings in the country. The case also demonstrates cooperation between international law-enforcement agencies in locating people wanted in connection with criminal investigations.

Philippine Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado praised the Fugitive Search Unit for locating and apprehending the Australian national and warned foreign fugitives against attempting to use the Philippines to avoid legitimate legal proceedings.

The allegations against Levi have not been established as facts by a final court judgment. He remains entitled to due process, and any criminal liability will ultimately be determined through the appropriate legal proceedings.