FBI Brings Wanted Fraudster Back to U.S.
The FBI has confirmed the return of a high-profile fraud suspect from India to the United States, where he faces charges related to a food stamp fraud operation.
64-year-old Manjit Singh Bedi, previously residing in Kent, Washington, was placed on the FBI’s “Most Wanted Fraudsters” list early in September, with a substantial reward of up to $150,000 for information leading to his capture. This action marked the sixth successful apprehension from that list.
Bedi, a naturalized citizen originally from India, is implicated in a scheme that allegedly scammed the U.S. government out of more than $600,000 between March 2024 and June 2025.
Operating a small shop called Asian Grocery Store in Tacoma, Washington, Bedi was supposed to sell food to participants of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
“Instead of providing food, Bedi reportedly swiped the participants’ cards and gave them cash, pocketing half of the proceeds,” the FBI stated in their description of Bedi’s activities.
He initially appeared in court in April, entering a not guilty plea after being indicted for wire fraud and SNAP benefit fraud. Although he wasn’t taken into custody at that time, he was instructed to surrender his passport and stay in Washington. However, he violated these conditions, crossing into Canada just days later before fleeing to India.
A federal arrest warrant was issued in May 2026 in a U.S. District Court after he was charged for breaching the terms of his supervision.
Indian law enforcement acted quickly, apprehending Bedi and transferring him to U.S. federal agents in Washington.
“I commend the efforts of the FBI and our international partners in bringing Mr. Bedi back to the U.S. to face justice,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Neil Floyd. “We’ll request that the court detain him until his trial since he has demonstrated a clear intent to evade justice. Those who exploit America’s generosity must be held accountable.”
FBI Director Kash Patel referred to this event as a noteworthy success for the bureau’s Most Wanted Fraudsters program, which has only been active for a few months.
“Bedi is among six captured from the Most Wanted list since its inception, and together they are linked to over $2 billion in fraud,” Patel noted. “He had eluded capture for nearly 4,000 days prior to his arrest.”
“This case exemplifies our commitment to collaboration with foreign partners to return high-profile fugitives,” he added, mentioning a total of over 260 removals in the last 20 months, marking an uptick of about 70% from previous years.
USDA Inspector General John Walk remarked, “Bedi tried to avoid justice by returning to India, but ultimately he was brought back to face the repercussions of his actions. Stealing food assistance meant for those in need is unacceptable, and we will pursue those who engage in such crimes, no matter where they flee.”
FBI Seattle Special Agent in Charge Mike Herrington stated during a briefing that fleeing the country will not guarantee freedom from justice. “If you think you can escape beyond U.S. borders to dodge our system, you are mistaken, as Mr. Bedi learned,” he asserted.
“The FBI is dedicated to tracking individuals who think they can outrun the law, even if they seek refuge overseas,” Herrington added, hinting that anyone aiding such criminals could face charges for their involvement in crimes against vulnerable citizens.
