Indian tycoon forced from court and accosted by reporters as fire alarm disrupts major fraud trial
Press gather around accused UB Group chairman Vijay Mallya to ask impromptu questions as he angrily refuses to take part in 'trial by media' on London street
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.An Indian business tycoon due to face extradition proceedings has insisted fraud allegations against him are unfounded - after an evacuation of the court building brought him face to face with journalists.
Entrepreneur Vijay Mallya, chairman of the UB Group and co-owner of Silverstone-based Sahara Force India F1 team, is wanted in his home country and was due before Westminster Magistrates' Court on Monday.
But a fire alarm forced him instead to walk into the glare of the media spotlight outside the central London building.
Reporters from across the globe had gathered to see the drinks and aviation magnate arrive and quickly seized the opportunity to question him.
TV crews from India pursued Mr Mallya haphazardly around the pavement as he tried to avoid being cornered.
He told reporters the accusations against him were unfounded, while angrily telling one broadcaster he would not stand for “trial by media”.
Mr Mallya was arrested in April by the Metropolitan Police's extradition unit on behalf of authorities in India, where he is wanted in connection with money laundering and high value bank demands.
India's Enforcement Directorate has been gathering evidence as part of its investigation into the tycoon's debts, totalling £977 million, linked to Mr Mallya's now-defunct airline Kingfisher.
PA
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments