Lead
The FBI has arrested Nitish Kaushal, an Indian national wanted for alleged murder, kidnapping and drug trafficking in the United States, days after he was added to the agency's most wanted list. The FBI confirmed the arrest in a post on X on Thursday, stating that Kaushal had been taken into custody in Vermont.
Coverage Comparison
Two reports from The Hindu — World covered the arrest and the preceding addition to the most wanted list. The first report, published on July 15, detailed Kaushal's addition to the list and the FBI's description of him as armed and dangerous. The second, published on July 17, confirmed the arrest and reiterated the same allegations and background. Both reports drew on FBI statements and official sources.
Key Claims
According to the FBI, Kaushal allegedly carried out acts of violence on behalf of the Bhagwanpuria organised crime group, including kidnappings and assaults. The FBI stated that Kaushal was wanted for his alleged involvement with a transnational criminal organisation engaged in activities such as murder, kidnapping, drug trafficking, extortion, weapons trafficking, money laundering, and human smuggling.
The Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Organised Crime Group originated in the Punjab state of India and operated in the Central District of California and elsewhere, the FBI said. The U.S. District Court of the Central District of California, Los Angeles, issued a federal arrest warrant for Kaushal on June 25 after charging him with racketeer influenced and corrupt organisations conspiracy.
The FBI action followed Operation Hard Ball, a coordinated international enforcement action targeting the Bhagwanpuria gang. The operation involved raids and law enforcement action across the U.S., Canada, and Europe.
The FBI had urged people to contact the local FBI office, the American Embassy or consulate with any information regarding Kaushal. After his arrest, the FBI's post confirmed that Kaushal had been taken into custody in Vermont.