INTERPOL reported to have issued Blue Notice following Goa nightclub fire

The INTERPOL Red Notice receives a lot of attention – both positive and negative – whether in the news or in commentary.

Although it is in itself not an arrest warrant, the INTERPOL Red Notice is an invaluable tool that helps jurisdictions across the world locate, detain and return individuals suspected of involvement in criminal activity.

Another important INTERPOL mechanism is the Blue Notice, and we explore its purpose and use below.

In a recent example of this instrument’s use, it has been reported that INTERPOL has issued Blue Notices against two individuals, now believed to be outside India, who are claimed to be the owners of a Goa nightclub where a fire resulted in a tragic loss of life.

What is an INTERPOL Blue Notice?

A Blue Notice is issued by INTERPOL to collect information about a suspect’s identity, location or activities in connection with a criminal investigation. This information can then be used by INTERPOL and relevant local authorities to investigate and potentially locate an individual.

The main difference between a Blue Notice and a Red Notice is that a Blue Notice does not request an individual’s arrest. However, the information obtained through a Blue Notice may subsequently be used to escalate the situation and lead to the issuing of a Red Notice.

INTERPOL’s colour-coded range of Notices

The Red and Blue Notices are not the only tools in INTERPOL’s arsenal. In fact, INTERPOL has access to a whole range of colour-coded Notices to assist in different scenarios.

In addition to the Red and Blue Notice, INTERPOL can also deploy Purple Notices to seek or provide information on modus operandi, Green Notices to provide warnings and intelligence about repeat offenders and Yellow Notices to help locate missing persons.

INTERPOL can also issue Black and Orange Notices in certain situations and for specific purposes.

How to challenge an INTERPOL Blue Notice

INTERPOL is governed by the Rules on the Processing of Data (“RPD”) and the INTERPOL Constitution (the “Constitution”). Effective challenges require an intricate understanding of both frameworks, combined with a careful analysis of the specific factual circumstances of each individual case.

What does all this mean? Enhanced police cooperation – but also potential for challenge

INTERPOL’s diverse range of Notices enhances cross-border police cooperation, resulting in greater reach and efficiency.

With regards to investigations against individuals, the potential for enhanced information sharing, and potentially easier access to evidence from a broader scope, may ultimately result in charges being brought against those who are based in the UK, extradition requests being issued against those based abroad, or INTERPOL Red Notices leading more readily to extradition proceedings.

If you have conducted business and are worried about liability or if you have unresolved financial matters, including even an outstanding civil dispute, and you suspect that you may be subject to INTERPOL measures, including a Red or a Blue Notice, expert legal advice should be sought immediately.

How Gherson can help

Those who suspect that they may be subject to INTERPOL measures, including a Red (or Blue) Notice and diffusion, should take heed.

Gherson Solicitors continue to receive requests for expert advice and assistance from those who believe they may have outstanding financial issues. That advice tackles:

1. How best to approach a possible INTERPOL notice;
2. Preparing for potential criminal proceedings / an extradition request;
3. Preparing for a situation where a civil matter or commercial dispute could be used to initiate bogus criminal proceedings; and
4. Even exploring the possibility of instigating civil litigation proceedings to recover any misappropriated assets.

Gherson have previously written a series of blogs designed to assist those who suspect they may be subject to INTERPOL measures (including a Blue and a Red Notice):

• INTERPOL and Red Notice Challenges
• How to Remove an INTERPOL Red Notice
• INTERPOL Red Notices and Extradition
• How do I know if I am subject to an INTERPOL Red Notice?
• What is INTERPOL’s Silver Notice?
• INTERPOL UPDATE – India charges 8 people in first Interpol Silver Notice Case
• What is an INTERPOL Yellow Notice?
• What is an INTERPOL-United Nations Security Council Special Notice?
• What is an INTERPOL Purple Notice?
• What is an INTERPOL Green Notice and can it be challenged?
• What is an INTERPOL Orange Notice and can it be challenged?
• What is the purpose of an INTERPOL Blue Notice, and can it be challenged?
• What is an INTERPOL Blue Notice?

Gherson has over 36 years of experience in assisting with all aspects of INTERPOL, Red Notice challenges and extradition. If you would like to speak to us in respect of any of the issues raised in this blog or about your specific circumstances, do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice.  Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position.  Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog.  For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson.  Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

©Gherson 2025