The Launch of the Most Wanted Fraudsters List
The FBI has expanded its Most Wanted Fraudsters list, adding three alleged fraud suspects. This initiative spotlights individuals accused of major financial crimes and encourages public tips that could lead to arrests. FBI Director Kash Patel announced the latest additions on September 3.
The new names include Manjit Singh Bedi, Onur Simsek, and Bernhard Eugen Fritsch, each wanted in connection with separate fraud schemes. The initiative comes as the FBI increases its focus on large-scale fraud cases. Patel mentioned the apprehension of four individuals responsible for nearly $2 billion in fraud.
Details of the New Additions
Manjit Singh Bedi
Bedi is accused of defrauding the U.S. government of $600,000 in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funds between 2024 and 2025. He allegedly operated a grocery store in Tacoma, Washington, and fraudulently processed Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) transactions.
Authorities believe Bedi fled to India. Charged with wire fraud and other offenses, he was a fugitive for almost a year. The FBI announced his arrest in India, making him the fifth individual from the list to be captured. Deputy Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald emphasized the Justice Department’s global reach.
Bernhard Eugen Fritsch
Fritsch is wanted for an alleged investment fraud scheme involving StarClub Inc. He reportedly raised about $35 million from investors between 2014 and 2017 while misrepresenting the company’s financial situation. At least $7.3 million was allegedly used for personal expenses.
Convicted of wire fraud in April 2025 in California, Fritsch fled to Mexico before a post-conviction hearing. He was detained with false identification but later fled to Munich, Germany. Sentenced in absentia to 15 years, he’s fined $35,000 and owes over $26.8 million in restitution.
Onur Simsek
Simsek, a Turkish national, is accused of fraudulently securing Department of Defense contracts for military components from 2019 to 2022. Authorities claim he used a front company to obtain the contracts and transferred funds to Turkey. A fugitive since 2023, he faces charges of conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering.
The Most Wanted Fraudsters List
The list was launched on June 4, 2026, highlighting fugitives accused of significant fraud offenses causing substantial financial harm. Patel’s announcement emphasized federal law enforcement’s determination to bring these individuals to justice.
Current crimes on the list include healthcare fraud, pandemic relief fraud, investor fraud, and government benefits fraud.
FBI’s Official Most Wanted Lists
The FBI maintains three Most Wanted lists:
- Ten Most Wanted Fugitives, established in 1950.
- Most Wanted Terrorists, started after September 11, 2001.
- Most Wanted Fraudsters, launched in June 2026.
The fraud-focused list shows the agency’s commitment to pursuing financial criminals and warns the public about significant fraud schemes. The list now features 12 individuals, including Simsek and Fritsch.
