New York: President-elect Donald Trump announced plans to replace the federal prosecutor who filed charges in a high-profile "murder-for-hire" case against Vikash Yadav, a former officer with India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), accused of plotting an assassination attempt on a Khalistani leader. Trump revealed that he is nominating Jay Clayton, a former Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) chairman, as the new District Attorney for the Southern District of New York.
In a social media post, Trump expressed confidence in Clayton, stating, “Jay is going to be a strong Fighter for the Truth as we Make America Great Again.” If approved by the Senate, Clayton would succeed Damian Williams, the current District Attorney, who is expected to resign upon the change in administration on January 21.
Williams recently filed the case against Yadav, alleging that he coordinated a scheme to hire a hitman to eliminate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a prominent Khalistani leader. As part of the investigation, Nikhil Gupta, an Indian citizen, was also charged last year as a co-conspirator. Gupta, who was extradited from the Czech Republic in June, has pleaded not guilty, and his next court hearing is scheduled for January 19.
Although Williams may step down, his legal team will continue to manage the case until Clayton assumes office and, along with the new Attorney General, decides on further actions. Trump has appointed former Representative Matt Gaetz as Attorney General, a choice that has sparked considerable debate.
According to the charges, Yadav, described as a "Senior Field Officer" with RAW, remains in India, where he reportedly faces charges of kidnapping and extortion. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a "Wanted" notice for Yadav, alleging he and Gupta sought to hire an undercover government agent, mistakenly believing him to be a professional hitman, to carry out the assassination.
The Southern District of New York, which includes Manhattan and Wall Street, handles numerous high-profile financial cases. Clayton’s background as the former head of the SEC suggests he will bring particular focus and expertise to financial crime cases, including those involving market manipulation and fraud.
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