The Karnataka High Court has ordered the deportation of two Nigerian nationals accused of staying in India for more than a decade without valid visas.
In a judgment delivered, the court directed the Foreigners Regional Registration Office to begin the process of removing Emeka Iwoba, also known as Austin Noso Iwoba, and Uderike Fidelis from the country.
The pair were arrested in 2024 by police in Bengaluru over alleged involvement in the trafficking of illicit drugs, including the synthetic substance 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and cocaine.
During the proceedings, the defendants maintained that security operatives failed to adequately notify them of the reasons for their arrest when they were taken into custody.
In its ruling, the court ordered their release, noting that law enforcement authorities must comply with constitutional provisions that require suspects to be informed of the grounds for their arrest.
The court emphasised that the requirement forms a core constitutional protection and should not be treated as a mere procedural step.
It added that the safeguard under Article 22 of the Constitution of India applies to all persons within the country, including foreign nationals.
According to the court, the provision is designed to protect individuals regardless of nationality, stressing that the right is based on personhood rather than citizenship.
Following their release, the court directed the immigration authorities to proceed with their deportation in line with the government’s standard operating procedures governing the withdrawal of prosecution against foreign nationals.
