Nitish Kaushal added to FBI Most Wanted list in Operation Hard Ball crackdown on Indian gangs

The FBI placed Indian national Nitish Kaushal on its Ten Most Wanted list, accusing him of murder, kidnapping, drug trafficking and other crimes tied to the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria organised crime group. Kaushal is alleged to have acted for the transnational syndicate that originated in Punjab, India, and operated in California and elsewhere. His addition follows "Operation Hard Ball," a coordinated federal effort that has resulted in the arrest of eleven alleged members of India‑based gangs in California, including affiliates of the Bhagwanpuria and Bishnoi groups. Prosecutors say these gangs used California as a hub for extortion, drug and gun trafficking, and other violent felonies, with leaders directing operations from Indian prisons via encrypted messaging. The operation spans investigations in the United States, Canada and Europe and reflects an intensified push against cross‑border organised crime.