No Passport, No Visa: American Man Held Near India-Nepal Border

A man claiming to be a US citizen was arrested by the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) near the India-Nepal border in Uttar Pradesh after he was allegedly found trying to cross into Nepal without carrying any valid travel documents.

The 36-year-old identified himself as Jordan Brown and said he was from California. According to officials, he was stopped during a routine patrol by the 22nd Battalion of the SSB near border pillar number 516 in the Mainihwa area under the Sonauli police station limits in Maharajganj district on Saturday.

Tried To Escape, Says Police

Officials said Brown allegedly attempted to run after being signalled to stop but was caught by SSB personnel. During questioning, he could not produce a passport, visa or any other identity document.

Police said Brown claimed he had travelled to Thailand on a tourist visa, where he lost his passport. He also told investigators that he had previously served in the US Navy.

Stayed In India For Months

According to police, Brown later travelled by sea to Sri Lanka before reaching India on November 2, 2025. He reportedly stayed in Goa for several months before travelling to Bengaluru and then heading to the Sonauli border with the intention of entering Nepal.

Authorities said he had been living in India for nearly seven months without carrying a valid passport.

Cash, Phones Recovered

During a search, officials recovered ₹31,460 in cash and two mobile phones from Brown’s possession. However, no valid travel or identity documents were found.

After being questioned by the SSB and other security agencies, Brown was handed over to the Sonauli police for further action.

Investigation Underway

Police said they are verifying Brown’s claims, including his identity and his statement about serving in the US Navy. A case has been registered against him under Sections 21 and 23 of the Immigration and Foreigners Act for allegedly entering India without valid documents.