International Operation Leads to Arrest of Notorious Gangsters in Angola
In a significant international crackdown, Punjab and Haryana police have arrested two notorious gangsters in Angola. Varinder and Manjot, linked to infamous crime groups, are now being repatriated to India. This operation is part of the broader 'Operation Hard Ball' led by the FBI, targeting Indian-origin gangsters involved in serious crimes. The FBI's recent actions highlight ongoing efforts to dismantle organized crime networks. Discover more about the implications of these arrests and the details of Operation Hard Ball.
| Jul 18, 2026, 13:42 IST
Major Arrests in International Operation
In a significant international operation conducted by the police forces of Punjab and Haryana, two infamous gangsters were apprehended in Angola, Africa. One of the gangsters, Varinder (also known as Joban Saidoke), was wanted in connection with four sensational murder cases in Punjab, while Manjot was sought for multiple criminal offenses in Haryana. Reports indicate that both individuals are active members of the notorious Gopi Ghanshyampuria and Doni Bal gangs. The Punjab government had previously announced a reward of ₹5 lakh for information leading to Varinder's arrest. The process to repatriate both gangsters to India has already commenced.
What is Operation Hard Ball?
What is Operation Hard Ball?
In a related development, the FBI arrested gangster Nitish Kaushal on Friday. He faces charges of murder, kidnapping, and drug trafficking in the United States. This arrest occurred just days after he was added to the list of 'Most Wanted' criminals. The FBI announced on Thursday via a post that Kaushal was taken into custody in Vermont. He is known to be an associate of gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria. The FBI has been actively targeting Indian-origin gangster syndicates under 'Operation Hard Ball'. According to the agency, Kaushal allegedly participated in violent incidents orchestrated by the Bhagwanpuria Organized Crime Group, which included kidnappings and assaults.
All About Operation Hard Ball
All About Operation Hard Ball
This arrest was made as part of 'Operation Hard Ball', an initiative by the FBI aimed at dismantling organized crime networks associated with Indian-origin gangsters. The agency has been conducting ongoing operations against such gangs. Kaushal was added to the FBI's 'Most Wanted' list on Tuesday, as the agency sought him for his alleged connections to an international criminal organization involved in serious crimes such as murder, kidnapping, drug trafficking, extortion, arms smuggling, money laundering, and human trafficking.
Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Group Originates from Punjab: FBI
Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Group Originates from Punjab: FBI
The FBI stated that the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria organized crime group originated in Punjab, India, and operates in the Central District of California and other locations. On June 25, a federal arrest warrant was issued against Kaushal by the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California in Los Angeles. He has been charged with conspiracy related to racketeering and corruption.
