FBI launches manhunt for Indian in fraud case

The United States’ Federal Bureau of Investigation has launched a manhunt for an Indian national accused of orchestrating a large-scale fraud scheme across the US and has appealed to the public for information on his whereabouts.

In a post on X, the agency said Kalpeshkumar Rasikbhai Patel, also known as Kenny Patel, is wanted for his alleged involvement in a nationwide operation that targeted multiple victims between 2017 and 2021.

According to the FBI, Patel, who worked as a fuel station attendant, is accused of participating in a scheme that deceived victims into transferring large sums of money. Many individuals were allegedly contacted via telephone and misled into believing their personal information had been linked to criminal activities.

Victims were then persuaded to send money, often in cash or through prepaid debit cards, to locations across the country, the agency said.

Patel, 35, is likely residing or travelling between Illinois and Pennsylvania.

A federal arrest warrant was issued against him on June 22, 2023, by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky in London, Kentucky, after he was charged with conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.

Describing him as a fugitive, the FBI said any information regarding Patel’s location would be considered significant and actionable. The agency has urged members of the public to contact their nearest FBI office or the closest American embassy or consulate with relevant information.