Metro Worker Caught in Global Drug Ring
A new crackdown has led to the arrest of several individuals, including a 26‑year‑old Metro employee. The man was taken from his workplace at El Monte Transit Center and placed in a federal van, as footage shows. Soon after the arrest, authorities searched his apartment in Highland Park, but no evidence was collected during that visit. A second search targeted another house the suspect often visits.
Federal prosecutors claim he is linked to an Indian crime organization known as the Bhagwanpuria Ring, which has operated in California’s Central District and beyond. The larger operation, called “Hard Ball”, involved actions across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. It has already resulted in 24 arrests, eight of them from Southern California.
Alleged Offenses
The alleged group is accused of many serious offenses:
- Extortion
- Kidnapping
- Drug trafficking
- Money laundering
- Human smuggling
- Murder
A notable case involves the 2023 killing of a prominent Sikh political and religious leader in Canada, identified as “H. S. N.” in court papers. Two top leaders of the group are already serving sentences in India.
Drug Seizures
Investigators say the organization flooded communities with large amounts of cocaine and methamphetamine, especially targeting U.S. and Canadian areas connected to India. They also reportedly threatened people in India with violence to force payments.
During the operation, officials seized about 1,000 kilograms of cocaine, one kilogram of heroin, $40,000 in cash, and a dozen guns.
Search Warrants
In total, 23 search warrants were executed around Sacramento and 11 in Los Angeles.
