Operation Hardball Targets International Crime Networks Across North America

Federal authorities say a massive international crackdown has dismantled several violent crime networks operating across North America and beyond.Dubbed Operation Hardball, the investigation led to the arrest of 24 suspects across the United States, Canada and parts of Europe, including 11 arrests in California.According to federal prosecutors, three India-based organized crime groups are accused of racketeering, extortion, drug trafficking, weapons offenses and targeted killings.Investigators say the organizations operated globally, allegedly using violence and intimidation to target members of the Indian diaspora living in the United States, Canada and overseas communities.Authorities say the investigation also includes the 2023 assassination of a prominent Indian political and religious leader in Canada, identified in court documents only by the initials H.S.N.As part of the operation, law enforcement officials seized approximately 1,000 kilograms of cocaine, one kilogram of heroin, cash and firearms while serving dozens of search warrants in the Sacramento and Los Angeles areas.Federal prosecutors announced that three indictments have been unsealed charging 37 defendants with offenses including racketeering, extortion and drug trafficking following a multi-year investigation into the criminal organizations.Officials say the investigation remains active as authorities continue working with international partners to locate several remaining fugitives. For more Coachella Valley News visit NBCPalmSprings.com