The U.S. investigative agency FBI has arrested eight wanted terrorists and gangsters who had fled from India. All of them are of Indian origin and were linked to active terrorist and criminal networks in India. Among those arrested is a major name associated with Khalistani terrorism.
For the first time, a major crackdown has been witnessed in the U.S., which had become a new haven for criminals and terrorists fleeing from India. The FBI, tightening its grip on several gangsters and terrorists declared wanted by India, has arrested eight individuals of Indian origin from different parts of the United States. This action is also being seen as a sign of growing cooperation between India and the U.S. on counter-terrorism efforts.
Biggest Name Among the Arrested: Pavitar Batala
The most significant name among those arrested is Pavitar Batala, known to be a close associate of Khalistani terrorist Lakhbir Singh Rode, and one of Punjab’s most wanted gangsters. Pavitar has been involved in carrying out terrorist activities in Punjab through Babbar Khalsa International. India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) had already filed a chargesheet against him, and an arrest warrant had long been pending.
Plotting Crimes in India While Based in the U.S.
According to Indian intelligence reports, all these accused had entered the United States illegally and were orchestrating criminal and terrorist plots in India from there. Through their network within India, activities like contract killings, weapons supply, and issuing threats continued. Following the arrests, the FBI has now begun a detailed investigation into these matters.
The U.S. Becoming a Safe Haven
In recent years, the U.S. has turned into a safe refuge for many gangsters and terrorists who have fled India. Notorious names like Goldy Brar, Anmol Bishnoi, and Rohit Godara have already taken shelter in the U.S. These individuals intentionally surrender to U.S. authorities in order to exploit local legal systems and delay deportation proceedings. However, the FBI’s recent crackdown is seen as the beginning of dismantling this growing network.
