2 min readUpdated: Jul 17, 2026 11:36 AM IST

The FBI says it has arrested Nitish Kaushal, an Indian-origin man who was added to its “wanted” list just days earlier for his alleged role in a transnational criminal organisation accused of murder, kidnapping, drug trafficking, extortion, weapons trafficking, money laundering, and human smuggling.

Who is Nitish Kaushal?

Kaushal, who also goes by the alias “Lala,” is accused of being an associate of the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Organized Crime Group, or “Bhagwanpuria OCG”  a syndicate the FBI says originated in Punjab and operated in California’s Central District and beyond.

The agency has alleged he personally carried out violent acts on the group’s behalf, including kidnappings and assaults.

What is he charged with?

A federal arrest warrant was issued for Kaushal on June 25, 2026, by the US District Court for the Central District of California, after he was charged with Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Conspiracy.

What is RICO?

RICO is a 1970 federal law built to target entire criminal enterprises rather than individual offenders. To convict under it, prosecutors must show a defendant participated in an ongoing syndicate through a “pattern of racketeering activity” at least two related crimes, such as extortion, bribery, fraud, or money laundering, committed within a 10-year span.

The law lets prosecutors hold enterprise leaders accountable for crimes they ordered or facilitated, carries penalties of up to 20 years per count, and allows for full forfeiture of illegally obtained assets.

How and where was he caught?

The FBI’s wanted-notice page for Kaushal now displays the word “Captured” across his photo, though the notice itself does not say when or where he was apprehended, which agency made the arrest, or any details of his custody or upcoming court proceedings.

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Meanwhile, FBI Albany said on social media that Kaushal was captured early Thursday in Vermont with assistance from US Border Patrol agents patrolling the northern border.

Beyond confirming the RICO charge, the FBI has not released additional details about the case, and it’s not yet clear when Kaushal will appear in court or where he is currently being held.

(With inputs from agencies) 

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