An organised crime syndicate recruited vulnerable young people from India, promising money, power, and opportunities to migrate to countries like the United States and Canada. Some recruits were allegedly paid as little as Rs 20,000 ($200) to commit murders, as per a US federal indictment. The indictment sheds light on the recruitment model of the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Organised Crime Group, expanding from Punjab to North America, Europe, and Oceania.
The 44-page indictment, obtained by US prosecutors, details the operations of the transnational criminal organisation led by Jaggu Bhagwanpuria. It outlines the group’s growth from its origins in Punjab to becoming a transnational syndicate with members across various countries.
The indictment charges 15 defendants, including alleged gang leader Jaggu Bhagwanpuria and Indian national Nitish Kaushal, who was recently arrested in Vermont after being placed on the FBI’s Most Wanted list. The Bhagwanpuria Organised Crime Group allegedly targeted vulnerable populations in India, recruiting minors for lower criminal penalties if caught committing violent crimes.
Prosecutors claim that the organisation enticed recruits with promises of money, power, and the chance to leave India. They allegedly paid some recruits as little as $200 to commit murders on behalf of the enterprise. The group also sought individuals who could qualify for visas to operate in foreign countries, rewarding loyal members with opportunities abroad.
