The Umhlali Periodical Court recently denied bail to 40-year-old Rahul Jaiswal, who is wanted by the US for a series of serious crimes.

According to NPA regional spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson-Kara, South Africa had received an extradition request from the US government outlining charges against him.

He was recently arrested in Ballito.

He is accused of leading an organised crime group under the guise of Jaiswal DTO operating from India, allegedly involved in the illegal importation, distribution, and misbranding of prescription drugs.

During his bail application, Jaiswal highlighted personal circumstances, including his marriage to a South African citizen, financial responsibility towards his family, and information relating to his employment in India.

The state argued that Jaiswal’s status as a foreign national, his lack of permitted employment in South Africa, and his ties to the alleged criminal activities posed significant risks and that he was a flight risk.

The case will return to court in January for a pre-inquiry into the extradition request hearing.