Jalandhar: Manjit Singh Bedi, a 64-year-old Indian-origin grocery store owner listed among the FBI’s most-wanted fraud suspects, has been arrested in India and handed over to US authorities, according to reports. He was allegedly hiding in Jalandhar while wanted in connection with a fraud case involving approximately $600,000 in the US Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
The operation was carried out through coordination between Punjab Police and international law enforcement agencies. Bedi was reportedly transferred to US authorities on October 15 and taken to the Western District of Washington, where he is expected to face proceedings in a federal court in Tacoma.
Bedi allegedly operated a grocery store in Tacoma, Washington state, and faces a wire fraud case linked to food assistance intended for low-income households.
According to the information provided, he pleaded not guilty during a court appearance in April 2026. He subsequently allegedly violated the conditions of his release, travelled to India via Canada and took refuge in Jalandhar.
The FBI added Bedi to its “Most Wanted Fugitives” fraud list on September 3, 2026, after which efforts to locate him intensified. Following a tip-off, Jalandhar Police and Indian law enforcement agencies reportedly detained him before handing him over to US officials.
FBI Director Kash Patel and the US Attorney’s Office confirmed the transfer and thanked Punjab Police and Indian agencies for their assistance. A press release was also issued after Bedi arrived in the US.
Bedi will face the allegations in a US court. The charges remain allegations, and any finding of guilt will depend on the outcome of the judicial proceedings.
