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Indian citizen sentenced to prison time for conspiring cross-border smuggling scheme

Bellingham, WALocal News

Rajat Rajat, a 27-year-old Indian citizen, was sentenced to five months in prison for conspiring to smuggle individuals into the United States for profit. He met with at least eight people at Peace Arch Park in 2023, taking payments in exchange for instructions on illegal border crossings. Arrested near the border in December 2023, Rajat's co-conspirator, Sushil Kumar, received a six-month prison sentence earlier this year, while van driver Bobby Joe Green was sentenced to four months. Acting U. S.

Attorney Teal Luthy Miller confirmed the sentencing, underscoring the government's commitment to combating cross-border smuggling operations. Rajat's involvement included being smuggled into the U. S. himself, complicating his case. Once he completes his sentence, he is expected to be deported back to India.

This case reflects ongoing challenges related to illegal immigration and human trafficking. Authorities continue to prioritize enforcement efforts to deter such activities in the region.

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