Fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi was able to travel across the world because his revoked passport was not “physically” cancelled, officials in New Delhi said on Thursday.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) indicated that a “physical” cancellation of the passport document is necessary for the revocation to be fully enforced.

“Nirav Modi was issued a fresh passport only after his previous passport was physically cancelled. At no time did he have more than one valid passport in his possession,” said Raveesh Kumar, official spokesperson of the Ministry.

He said physical cancellation prevented any possibility of abusing the document.

The clarification addresses questions on the steps taken by the Ministry to stop the fugitive from travelling around the world.

Travel across countries

Earlier, the Ministry had written to Belgium, France and the U.K. to provide details of Mr. Modi’s location following reports that he was spotted in all three countries since he left India in January.

Officials explained that even a revoked passport could be used by a fugitive for personal travel, exploiting loopholes.

Intimation given

“The revocation notice was sent to all passport-issuing authorities in India and abroad as well as to all our missions and posts. Intimation was also given to the agencies on this matter,” the spokesperson said.

“We have sent a message to all our Missions as well as to select countries requesting the help of the local government in denying entry, and to inform us if he is residing in their country,” he said.