STOCKTON, Calif. (Diya TV) — Authorities in California have arrested eight men originally from India alleged to be connected with a violent gang led by Pavittar Singh, a fugitive wanted for murder in India and currently seeking asylum in the United States. The group faces serious charges, including kidnapping, torture, and conspiracy.
Law enforcement agencies say the gang has been linked to multiple violent incidents, including sword fights and shootings at Sikh temples and parades across California. This crackdown comes as part of the FBI’s Summer Heat initiative, a national campaign targeting gang violence and organized crime.
The arrests took place Friday following a coordinated investigation led by the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, with support from federal and local agencies. Officials seized handguns, an assault rifle, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and $15,000 in cash during the operation.
All eight suspects—Dilpreet Singh, Arshpreet Singh, Amritpal Singh, Vishal, Pavittar Singh, Gurtaj Singh, Manpreet Randhawa, and Sarabjit Singh—are facing multiple felony charges. These include torture, kidnapping, making criminal threats, and conspiracy to commit a crime.
“This takedown was part of the FBI’s Summer Heat initiative, a nationwide effort targeting violent offenders and gang members who terrorize our communities,” the San Joaquin County Police said in a statement on X.
FBI Director Kash Patel said the operation reflects the bureau’s “commitment to the American people to crush crime and restore safety in neighborhoods across the country.”
The primary suspect, Pavittar Singh, has drawn international attention. India’s National Investigation Agency has described him as a “gangster” with links to terror networks. He remains wanted for a murder case in India, even as his asylum application is pending in the U.S.
Authorities believe Singh’s gang was involved in violent confrontations inside Sikh religious institutions and community events throughout California. Law enforcement sources say these attacks often included the use of swords and firearms, escalating fears among residents.
The arrests come amid growing law enforcement cooperation between India and the United States. In April, U.S. authorities arrested Happy Passia, an operative of the banned Babbar Khalsa International group, also in California. Passia was accused of involvement in targeted killings and grenade attacks in India.
Indian officials welcomed Passia’s arrest as a sign of deepening cooperation with American law enforcement.
In February, India and the U.S. reaffirmed their commitment to tackling organized crime and transnational threats during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington. A joint statement released after Modi’s meeting with President Donald Trump highlighted both nations’ resolve to counter terrorism, illegal arms trafficking, and threats to public safety.
Community leaders in California say the rise in gang-related violence, particularly among some immigrant groups, has led to a growing sense of insecurity. The FBI’s focus on dismantling such criminal networks is seen as a necessary step to protect local neighborhoods.
FBI Director Patel recently praised India’s role in helping the U.S. crack down on illegal chemicals and synthetic drugs that fuel America’s opioid crisis. The cooperation now extends to tackling violent gangs operating across both countries.
The eight men remain in custody as they await court proceedings. Authorities have not disclosed if more arrests are expected, but say the investigation is ongoing.
Meanwhile, federal agencies are reviewing Pavittar Singh’s asylum claim, given his alleged involvement in organized crime and his fugitive status in India. Legal experts say the outcome could set a precedent for how the U.S. handles asylum applications linked to transnational criminal activity.
