FBI confirms arrest of absconding gangster Happy Passia, aide of Pak-based Rinda

FBI Arrests Fugitive Gangster Happy Passia, Close Aide of Pakistan-Based Rinda
In a major breakthrough against transnational crime, the FBI has arrested gangster Happy Passia, a close associate of Pak-based terrorist Harvinder Singh Rinda. The arrest strikes a significant blow to terror networks operating from abroad.
Who is Happy Passia?
Happy Passia, known for his criminal activities in Punjab, had fled India years ago. He worked closely with Rinda, who operates from Pakistan. Passia managed key tasks like arms supply, drug routes, and hit jobs for the gang.
Indian agencies had been tracking him for a long time. They say he played a central role in planning attacks, moving funds, and helping terror modules within India.
Arrest Confirmed by FBI
The FBI recently confirmed Passia’s arrest. While they haven’t revealed the exact date or place, sources suggest he was hiding in the United States. He lived under a fake identity and moved frequently to avoid capture.
Indian agencies, including the NIA, helped with the operation. Their intelligence proved crucial in locating him. The arrest highlights growing cooperation between India and the US against organized crime and terrorism.
His Link with Harvinder Singh Rinda
Rinda, listed as a terrorist under India’s UAPA, has been coordinating attacks from Pakistan. He uses a network of gangsters to carry out killings, smuggling, and terror acts in India.
Passia served as one of his key operatives. He managed communication between gang members in India and handlers in Pakistan. Officials believe he arranged funds through hawala, oversaw arms supply, and helped radicalize recruits.
Why This Arrest Matters
Indian security agencies call this a major success. By catching Passia, they hope to uncover more about Rinda’s operations. Interrogation may reveal smuggling routes, weapons caches, and names of active members.
A senior officer said, “Passia wasn’t just a gangster. He was a vital part of the terror network threatening Punjab’s peace.”
Extradition in Progress
India has started the process to bring Passia back. He faces charges for murder, extortion, drug trafficking, and illegal weapons supply. The extradition may take time due to legal steps in the US, but officials remain optimistic.
They believe the strong anti-terror cooperation between the two countries will speed things up.
Larger Crackdown on Gang-Terror Nexus
This arrest is part of a broader crackdown. Indian agencies are chasing several fugitives who left the country to run global crime syndicates.
Groups like Rinda’s often work with local gangsters such as Lawrence Bishnoi and Jaggu Bhagwanpuria. These groups share resources, fund illegal activities, and plan attacks to destabilize India.
Officials say they are working with countries across Europe and North America to locate and detain such criminals.
Final Thoughts
The arrest of Happy Passia marks a turning point. His capture breaks a key link in Rinda’s network. Indian agencies now aim to extract crucial information to prevent future threats.
This case also proves that no fugitive can hide forever. With growing global cooperation, the long arm of justice continues to close in on those who spread violence and terror.