Chandigarh, July 15: In a major crackdown on the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria organised crime network, the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has added Nitish Kaushal, alias ‘Lala’, a close associate of the notorious Punjab-based gangster, to its Most Wanted list.

Nitish Kaushal is accused of being involved in kidnapping, murder, extortion, drug trafficking, illegal arms supply and other organised criminal activities on behalf of the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria gang in California and other parts of the United States.

Earlier, on June 25, 2026, the United States District Court for the Central District of California issued a federal arrest warrant against him under the US Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.

Accused of Expanding Gang’s International Network

According to investigating agencies, Nitish Kaushal is considered a close and active member of the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Organised Crime Group (OCG).

Authorities allege that the Punjab-based gang expanded its operations to the United States, Canada and several European countries with the help of members such as Kaushal.

He is accused of carrying out extortion activities in the US, intimidating victims, and planning as well as executing kidnappings and violent attacks, particularly in California and nearby regions.

Facing Multiple Serious Criminal Charges

According to US authorities, the alleged international criminal network linked to Nitish Kaushal faces multiple serious charges, including murder and conspiracy to commit murder, extortion, drug trafficking, illegal arms trafficking, human trafficking, money laundering and offences under the RICO Act.

The action against Kaushal is part of Operation Hard Ball, a joint initiative involving the US Department of Justice, the FBI, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and other partner agencies.

The operation aims to dismantle transnational organised crime networks operating across India, the United States, Canada and Europe.

FBI Issues Public Warning

The FBI has classified Nitish Kaushal as armed and dangerous.

According to the agency, he may frequently change locations to evade arrest and continue efforts to remain a fugitive.

The FBI has urged the public not to approach or attempt to apprehend him. Instead, anyone with information about his whereabouts has been asked to immediately inform the relevant law enforcement authorities.