The FBI has successfully retrieved Manjit Singh Bedi from India to face charges for wire fraud related to a food stamp fraud scheme in the U.S. This apprehension is part of a broader initiative to address fraud effectively by capturing individuals listed as the most wanted.
Background of Bedi:
Manjit Singh Bedi, 64, originally from India, was a naturalized U.S. citizen living in Kent, Washington. He was added to the FBI’s "Most Wanted Fraudsters" list in September 2023 with a reward of up to $150,000.
Allegations Against Bedi:
Bedi is accused of defrauding the U.S. government of more than $600,000 from March 2024 to June 2025. He operated a business, Asian Grocery Store, which falsely claimed to sell food to SNAP participants but instead gave them cash for their benefit cards, keeping half the money for himself.
Legal Proceedings:
Bedi pleaded not guilty to charges of wire fraud and SNAP benefit fraud in April 2023. After failing to adhere to court orders—such as surrendering his passport—he fled to Canada and then to India shortly after.
FBI Action and Capture:
A federal arrest warrant was issued for Bedi in May 2026, leading to his quick detention by Indian authorities and eventual handover to U.S. federal agents on Wednesday night. The officials expressed gratitude to both the FBI and international partners for their roles in his capture.
Comments by Officials:
Acting U.S. Attorney Neil Floyd emphasized the importance of holding fraudsters accountable, while the FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted this case as part of the successful "Most Wanted Fraudsters" program. Over 260 high-value targets have been returned to the U.S. in the past 20 months.
Statements from Law Enforcement:
USDA Inspector General John Walk condemned the theft of SNAP benefits, stressing the commitment to pursue all perpetrators, regardless of their location. FBI officials reinforced that fleeing abroad does not exempt individuals from facing justice in the U.S.
Manjit Singh Bedi’s return to the U.S. marks a significant achievement for law enforcement agencies in combating fraud. The FBI's ongoing efforts demonstrate that they will pursue fugitives who believe they can escape justice by fleeing overseas, emphasizing their commitment to protect American taxpayers and aid the vulnerable.
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